A Farmstead Pilgrimage

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sun, 08 Jun 2014 18:46:00 +0000

Stepping back in gently...

Finding our way back... to things known.

Force has changed our path... for a while.

However, we refuse to give up...

...so easily!

We can quit this life when tragedy strikes, or we can fight like hell to keep the focus...

When you are on your knees, life can begin to escalate into a downward channel,

with no way back up.

Your frame of mind is muddled.

Tragedy when it brings you to your knees...

...it will change you as a person.

Which way do we want to go?

The decisions are yours.

Yours alone!

So we will start again...

Except not from the beginning.

We have come to recognize, even louder now, that our personal nature is such that we are not quitters.

We won't break and yield.

May we have the strength and courage

to meet head-on,

the trials and hardships

that are brought before us.

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sat, 24 May 2014 19:05:00 +0000

Where Oh Where Do I Begin...

The Sorrow from Loss.

The Recovery from Trauma.

The Final Crush of Hope.

Throughout my life, I have been dealt my share of experienced sorrow, trauma, and loss of hope...

but not all at once.

Not in a very short, all at once time period.

One of those experiences can be enough... perhaps...

to slaughter a person's strength of mind.

To break a person's spirit.

To cause one to lose *their* commitment to faith.

All At Once...

is enough to cripple a person for life...

If they so let it.

I would like to find my way back here...

If only...

To find healing...

Renewing of strength...

And to rekindle that previous determined outlook.

Have a Beautiful Day!

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Wed, 31 Jul 2013 05:38:00 +0000

Todavia estoy aqui...

"Yes, I'm still here".

Busy, busy is what we have been since my last post. We began topping our 300 Doug Fir trees, taking 20 feet off the tops in December, every weekend through the end of April. Boy, was that a job we are so glad to be done with. All of our neighbors stopped by randomly, giving their opinions of what we should do (regarding topping the trees), and how we should do it. Too much work they all equally agreed.

I don't remember how many loads of branches we took to the local tree farm, but I do remember the loads were over eight feet tall. We tied each load down, and drove the back roads, slowly. The people we passed on our way to the tree farm, seemed to stare at us as we drove. Yep, the loads were huge. All we wanted was to be done with this job. The tree farm, grinds the branches along with other vegetative matter, eventually blending it all together into compost, which they resell to the public.

It was time consuming and physically demanding work. Especially for "T" as he worked off an extension ladder with a manual pole saw, and occasionally using a motorized pole saw, which is like a chainsaw on a long pole.

Our view in doing the work ourselves was completely different that those expressed by our neighbors. We saved a lot of money by doing the work ourselves, and felt the physical work, even though demanding, is good for the human body. We both survived it, and came out on the other side in very good physical shape, just in time for beginning springtime work.

~Waiting for the shearing to begin~

~Haltering~

~Her name is 'Kindness'~

~I'm picking out vegetative matter~

~Overall, there is very little 'picking' done with the Romney's~

~Looking over fleece, picking out any vegetative matter~

~Done!~

Shearing went off without any issues. Probably due to my being in better physical shape, as I was able to wrap up my shearing in four days.

Back in January, I began to put together my ideas onto paper for a new quilt top. It took me about a month to gather the fabric, as I had limited funds. I choose to purchase my fabric from the locally owned quilt shop. With the economy being so poor, it was important to me to support the local quilt shop, rather than the big chain stores, even if it meant I had to pay a bit more per yard.

~Quilt Fabrics~

~Quilt making~

We no longer have any goats. They died throughout this past winter season. They all lived long happy lives: ages ranging from 11 years old to 13 years old. I realized after they were gone, I never did post any photos of them. But here is one I found of Spice...

~Spice~

We plan to get more goats in the future, as they are alot of fun, and easy keepers. They can be pesky too. They are kind of like a big dog that follows you around, sometimes jumping on you, and bothering you while you are working in their fields. Well, at least ours were like that. They are curious creatures.

Ahh death, I am so tired of you! I know you are a part of life, but you are such a discouragement when I am so mentally tired. I will not let you hinder my aspirations! Off with you!

At the end of June, we went to a local dog show. We arrived just in time to watch a couple of my favorite dog breeds compete in agility.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Cardigan Welsh Corgi

What a blessing it was to watch these dogs compete...and funny too. Some were so fast, I was in disbelief. As fun as it would be to take up agility, I would not do it with a long back, short legged dog. Having experienced firsthand two of our dogs (at different times) Lily, being one, and the other a Corgi/Border Collie cross) that were paralyzed due to ruptured disk in the spine. We stray away from such activities that put stresses on the spine. However I must say, it is entertaining to watch.

We fit into our busy schedule another road trip to look at a piece of land we had found this past winter. It was a matter of waiting for the snow to melt, in order to find it. In looking for our land, we have had to trade in the luxury of comfy hotel rooms, for primitive outback truck lodging, as the land is remote. We may have finally found it.

Here is a small peek...

~Land~

~Road to Land~

~'T' at campsite~

~View from Campsite~

~'T' at campsite, our truck, and 'food storage box'... we call them 'Bear Boxes'~

Back home, we began to overhaul the flower beds in front of our house. We finished just a few days before the 4th of July. It was another one of those jobs we did not really enjoy doing. We decided to treat ourselves to some relaxation on the morning of the 4th of July. It was a warm morning without wind, finally. We drove a little over an hour away from home to a lake, which was dotted by only a few other fishermen. The quietness was first-class.

~'T' lake kayaking~

~My view while kayaking~

~Immerson and I studying~

('T' took the photo, experimenting with black and white setting)

There is much more to tell, but I have run out of time. I hope and pray you are each doing well.

Have a blessed day!

Fondly yours,

Kris

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Wed, 07 Nov 2012 06:29:00 +0000

Since we don't have TV reception, we listen to the radio. I thought I'd be able to listen tonight for the election results. But I was getting too tense. I turned it off.

Life will carry on as it has,

and we will just have to figure out how to survive,

just as we have in the last four years.

Since May of 2012, I no longer ride for Mr. G.

Various reasons.

I did hurt my lower back, in November 2011 riding one of the horses.

My mind said "Do this", and my body said "No way".

In all my 30 years riding, I have never had a back injury,

and had never experienced such great pain.

That saying is true:

"If you don't use it, you will loose it".

Aster, Snapdragon, Status, Mint, Zinnia

One of many...
Summer 2012 Bouquet

India, Summer 2012
Enjoying "Outside".

Hwy 200 North, Montana

View from Bull River Camp ground.

Weather: hot, rain showers, sun, then sticky warmth.
Very enjoyable!

Sweet, Sweet, Ike!
AKA: "Misty"

He was terribly abused and neglected, before we adopted him.
He is still fearful of much.
He spends his days and nights, under the bed or in the closet.
Doesn't venture out much.

He is very healthy now and quietly happy.

One of my many bridles.
.
I used on Danny, when I rode him.
I like how he felt in it.
I liked how he responded.
Softer.
Slower.
Much more relaxed.
He liked it too.

A quick stained glass design.

Gifted.
July, 2012

In September, we had to put in a new wood stove.
Our other one, (same brand, Lopi) was completely worn out.
Sixteen years of hard use.
The metal inside the firebox was cracked. It was not safe anymore.

We installed the new one ourselves.
We were both very glad when it was over and done.
It was a heavy job.

"T" also installed the rock wall, and put up a mantle...
just for me.
~I was/still am elated!~
:o)

He/we had never have done any thing like this before.
It turned out really well.
We are grateful.

~Tack room~

An impromptu riding lesson, February, 2012

I showed up to ride at the barn...

Mr. G. says: "Guess what?"

I say: "What?"

Mr. G. says: "Your going to take a riding lesson today!"

I say (Exclaiming): "What?!"

Mr. G. says: "Yes, I've been talking with "J",
And...

"I want you to learn how to teach Danny"

to stop like she does it."

Don't worry, I am paying."

Needless to say, I did not want to do it...
I was too rusty,
I was out of shape physically,
I was not mentally ready,
I was...
the list could go on and on...

I tried to talk him into taking the lesson, and I'd just watch from the rail.

Let me also add here...
accomplished horsemen or horsewomen, don't just take lessons from 'Whomever'.
Usually a person, picks the person to learn from.

I did not know "J", at all.

Shortly I mounted up, and began warming Danny up...

Along the rail of the arena...
Spectators!
Dang!

"Oh heck, I've ridden in front of masses." I said to myself.
I just sucked it up, learned, and rode.

In the end, I learned the reason for my taking the lesson, and not Mr. G....
He doesn't like to take lessons in front of other people.
I understand.

I've been there and done that.

Eventually, you get over caring what other people think about you,

and just ride!

I did,
and it worked out fine.

Well, I need to close up here, and try to get some much needed reading for school. I am so far behind.

Until next time,

Blessings to you,

Kris

I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. Romans 1:16 niv

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 06:00:00 +0000

It has been a long time, no?

Flower Cutting Garden in full bloom.
July, 2012

Too long for me. It is hard to know where to begin. Looking back from where I left off, everything seems like a blur. There never was a moment for me, to wonder what to do next with my time.

Woodshed filled 10 plus cords of Doug Fir
June, 2012

The two loads of logs we received this spring, took until the end of June to get it into manageable and stackable pieces for the wood shed. After working our town jobs, we would work into dusk, bucking those logs. It seemed to take forever. I'd roll the rounds out after they were cut from the log pile and line them up. It was physically hard work for me. At one point, I really thought we were never going to get this wood into the woodshed before summer was over. I was tired of the noise from the chainsaw, the smell of the two-cycle exhaust, the bark, the rats (yes, we found two nests in two of the logs), and all that sawdust!

In the beginning after receiving our loads, "T" juggled bucking our logs, and the logs our neighbor, as Mr K's chainsaw quit running. There is nothing so overwhelming, as to stand in front of a dump truck load of logs with a non-running chainsaw.   Eventually, an idea came to "T", that Mr. K could use our chainsaw during the day, while we were at work. It worked out very well.

Unfortunately or maybe fortunately, I did not take any pictures of what looked to me as a place of chaos amongst the wood cutting. I think I did not want to be reminded of the big mess. You see, I like to have orderliness when I do things, even if it is a messy task. Although we were far from being done, I began raking the sawdust and picking up bark.  Oh what a difference it made for me, from that point forward.

India (on the left) and Irish
outside on the back porch.
July, 2012

For quite a while, we had been praying for a rooster. A Buff Orphington in particular. We wanted the rooster as a chick, that we could raise along with our pullets. Living where we live, where the country folk are slim in finding, and the city folk are in abundance, it is not easy to achieve. We have been wanting to start our own flock of laying hens and raise our own meat. Since trying various breeds of hens and roosters, we liked the Buff Orphington, and had read the roosters are known to be pretty gentle too.

Buff Orphington Pullets & Barred Rock Pullet
Spring, 2012

So this spring, we purchase two Buff Orphington pullets, and two Barred Rock pullets from the feed store. Or so we thought.

Buff Orphington Pullet
Spring, 2012

If there is one thing I have learned in this journey of self sufficiency, is that God answers prayers in His timing. But maybe not how we actually desire. The ending result is what we needed.
Well, kind of.

Our Barred Rock Rooster, with his hens.
August, 2012

He is, so far, kind to his hen's, and watches over them well. We don't tolerate overly aggressive roosters. At least not anymore. Unfortunately, he is aggressive towards me...but not "T". I carry a long stick when I go into the pen. I tell him to get within my reach, as I've got a hunger for some homegrown fried chicken. lol

Mountain Hike Scene
July, 2012

We did not hike near the amount we would have liked to this past year. However, I do have a few more pictures I will share later.

His Hat!
August, 2012

Finally "T" got to begin working on his homegrown hat while relaxing at the Bull River Campground in Montana. Wow, it seems to have taken me months and months to get his wool colors gathered, washed, picked, carded, spun, and plied. He wanted dark brown and gray. Natural colors. Finished pictures to come. Boy, is it a warm and rugged hat.

My favorite flower this summer.
An Aster variety.
Grown from seed, and enjoyed in my bouquets
both at home and work.
July, 2012

Homegrown Romney Wool
Almost ready for another project.
July, 2012

Until next time,

Blessings to each of you,

Kris

Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, "We will not walk in it." Jeremiah 6:16 niv

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Tue, 29 May 2012 06:29:00 +0000

This evening's view...

To hurry the pace, and keep most our strength,

we decided to use the tractor to move the spilt wood over to the woodshed.

Photo of ~T~ driving our JD through our lower pasture.

I did a variety of work today. Tending the greenhouse, transplanting tomatoes and peppers inside, several loads of laundry, time on the spinning wheel, and making what has become our customary meal: beans, brown rice, and fresh greens. I usually try to do 'my list', as well as help 'T' out when he is doing heavy work. 'T' worked on cutting wood all day. The weather today was rainy. Dark, cloudy and windy. Not my favorite weather.

We ran out of firewood at the end of March. We tried for the month of April to find an honest person to deliver firewood, and at a somewhat reasonable price. We saw prices as high as $300 for 1 cord of spilt Doug Fir. It was tough! After talking with our new neighbors from South Dakota, they found the same situation...'hard to get the firewood'. These new neighbors are very nice, as when they found out we did not have any wood for heat, they offered us some from their wood pile. What a blessing! Although we declined, as we didn't want to cut into their supply. We toughed it out and found scrapes of lumber from T's woodworking, to burn for a short periods to take the chill off the house.

Dumping wood at woodshed.

One day on our way home from work, both of us spotted, at the same time, a dump truck at the small rural grocery store, with a sign on it: "For Sale" and the phone number! T did a quick jab on the breaks of our truck, and pulled over behind the dump truck.

I immediately, asked T for his cell phone, and I dialed away, while sitting behind the truck. The driver said this load was sold, but we could be third in line. I told him, we would take two loads. A week later, about 7:45 pm on a Sunday night, we got the phone call that he's was on his way to deliver the first load.

It started like this...

Logs unloading...

It shook the ground and was very loud.

Now, the real work begins...

The logs ranged in diameter of 28 inches to 36 inches.

It's estimated that one load of these logs will give three to four cords. Just in case you don't know how large a true cord is: 4'X4'X8'.

If you wanted to purchase firewood by the pick-up load, and the seller is stating it's a cord of wood, you would want the wood to be stacked from front to back of a fullsize truck (example: fullsize Ford, Chev, Dodge with an 8' bed). The wood would need to be stacked up to the top (height of the cab) of the truck. If you purchase wood tossed into the back of the truck (not stacked) you will not be getting a full cord of wood. Beware! It looks like a lot, but it is not a true cord.

The two loads of wood we received were Doug Fir, which is a preferred wood in our area to burn, unless you can get ahold of hardwoods such as Maple, Oak, or Madrona, etc., but those are hard to come by in our neck of the woods. ;o)

Bucking the logs and then splitting the wood is hard physical work.
But it is good for the body!

The saying that firewood heats you twice, is so true. However, we think it's 'more than twice" that it heats you... with all the various levels that go with getting it into the woodshed.

We were grateful that we were also able to get the neighbors (from S.Dakota) on the list to receive a load of logs too. On Friday, the load was delivered. 'T' will be helping to buck some of the logs, and split the rounds for them.

After a few days of warm and sunny weather 83*F... the temperatures are dropping to low 40's F. the next few days. Yikes!

Cutting Garden, May, 2012

Finally... I got the flower cutting garden in...
It seemed to take forever!

Hoping they survive the low temperatures.

Spring harvest of Herbs!
~Dill, Parsley, Celery~

The photo above is of one of several herb harvests, I have done this year. These herbs were dehydrated at low temperatures for future use. Then stored in large gallon glass jars in the dark.
Since we don't used any prepackaged or processed foods, we rely heavily on herbs to season our food.

Dill Harvest, May 2012

Dill... A whole 1.5 lbs!

This years dill harvest was over the top!

I'm out of time for tonight. There is much more to share...

I'll be back...hopefully sooner than later.

Blessing to you,

Kris

Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting: to eat, to drink, and enjoy oneself in all one's labor in which he toils under the sun during the few years of his life which God has given him; for this is his reward. Ecclesiastes 5:18 NASB

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Thu, 03 May 2012 07:10:00 +0000

It's been two weeks since I've ridden. Our neighbors (the people I ride for) were out of town. It was a good time to get caught up on the routine springtime things. Shearing, seed starting, trimming the Doug Fir Trees, harvesting herbs, catching up on school work, bringing in new soil to the greenhouse, and making Rhubarb Ginger Jam.

My life is already full, and riding kind of takes it over the edge. But riding and being around the horses is good for me right now. I am very grateful to have this opportunity to ride.

The horses, 'Sonny' and 'Danny' are back home now. It is very good to see them in the field, when we drive pass in the morning on our way to work. And it is equally good, if not better, to see them when we return home during the evening. It has not even been a year yet, since I've been back to riding. July marks a year. I told 'T' we will have to celebrate.

Last night Mr. G. (the neighbor) called and asked if I wanted to ride Wednesday after work. I of course said, 'Yes!' I was excited all day today. I could not wait to get home and go riding. The horses were really fresh. Soon, Sonny settled back into his old self, of not putting forth more energy than needed. Danny however, was a handful the whole time. It was quite a lively and fast paced ride.

I thought I'd take my camera along, and see if I could capture a bit of the trail ride. I had to take him off the trail to do this, as he continually wanted to dive his head down and eat the grass. Even off the trail, he wanted to head for the lush green grass. He could feel that I was riding one handed, and tried to take advantage of it. Smart horse!

This was my first time trying to video while walking on horseback. Maybe it gives you a little feel what the ride was like.

Until next time,

Enjoy the day!

~Kris

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 07:52:00 +0000

Greetings Family and Friends!

I hope you are all doing well. Once again much time has passed since my last post. I have been kept overly busy. Too, too busy! It seems to me, that my life is rushing past me at an accelerated pace. There does not seem to be time to do the things I need to do.

Although we are striving to live this so called 'Simple Life', my daily life has become the opposite. I don't find much simplicity where I am standing right now. Peace and contentment do not visit me very frequently these days. There have even been moments, which I catch myself thinking 'How much easier our lives could be, if we just went back to the ways of following along with society.' Yikes!! At the moment in which I realize the depth of this thought, I tell myself, 'No way! You have come too far to turn back now! You are committed to the end!' So once again, I pick myself up; take another step forward toward the goal, in weariness.

~Purple Spring Broccoli~
(Photo taken Sunday, April 22, 2012)

Tonight, as I walked in from the field after picking a five gallon bucket of Purple Spring Broccoli, and feeding my girls (the sheep), darkness is arriving quickly. My mind begins to run through the 'things to do', once inside the house.

~Five gallons of Purple Spring Broccoli~
(Harvested tonight after work)

'Prep and process the broccoli (some for the freezer and some for the dehydrator), make up Boston Baked Beans, so it can cook overnight, wash dishes in the sink, ask 'T' (hubby) if he needs help picking up Doug Fir branches out front of our property, lubricate the bedroom door so it doesn't squeak when opened (in the early hours of morning), read chapter in school book, see if I can get time on the blog'.

Then, what seemed like out of nowhere, calmness settles in my mind. The reviewing stops. I stand for a few moments and listen. This is what I heard...

Nature, it IS so good for us!

Someday, my life will settle into a quiet routine. I will find that peace and contentment, I once knew. But for now, I take it in bits and pieces, here and there.

~Cheery and Sweet Smelling Daffodils~
(in the front flower bed)

It is my hope that I find time in the next few evenings to post happenings and pictures.

See you in a few days!

Kris

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 08:46:00 +0000

Season's Greetings Family and Friends!

I hope this note finds you all doing well. I'm sorry for such a long absence from posting. We are still here. Still keeping hope in our original plan. It certainly has been a continuous learning trail for us this past year. Some of it hard to readily accept, but we have managed through relying heavily on the Lord. If there is one thing I have learned, it is that the difficulties we have faced are just stepping stones for what He is preparing us for. In each situation, we are able to take from it, and strengthen our thoughts and character from it. In the beginning, I did not understand a lot of what was happening. I was hurt and confused at why the Lord would allow these situations to arise. Now, looking back, I see He is prepping us for who He wants us to be, not what we want to become. That probably sounds confusing, but possibly later, I'll be able to explain further.

2011, Comfrey
Started from Seed
I WAS completely Amazed, to say the least!

NOTE: Don't use 1st year
Comfrey leaves or roots for anything!
Cut first growth back and compost,
as these leaves contain
paralyzing alkaloids.

There is so much to tell you about, that which we have been up to. I know I'll never be able to share it all with you. I will tell you however, that I have come to a very strong conviction, to live my life, so very alternatively from mainstream society ways. Years ago, I would have never thought this to be so. I praise the Lord for the strength in breaking the chains, the vision He placed upon our hearts, and setting us free. Know that He does answer prayers in His timing, but maybe not exactly how we think they should be answered. His ways are actually beyond our understanding at certain times.

2011, Summer Cutting Garden.
Zinnia's, Status, Dyer's Chrysanthemum, Bachelor Buttons, Aster's, Marigolds, Holly Hocks, and many others.

Our harvest of fruits and vegetables was good, but lean. Though, exactly what we will need for the winter season sustenance. Gosh, we even harvested seven pounds of sweet corn.

Our Sweet Corn
Who knew corn grew in cool conditions?

This year, I learned that I cannot judge what a harvest will be like, based on the weather and what I wear during the summer growing season here: a winter hat, winter coat with two long sleeve shirts.

2011 Sweet Corn
Waiting for blanching, then cut off cob, and freeze.

Corn still can be had! (grin)

Fall harvest 2011
Just before the first hard killing freeze.
Finally, my third year attempt. I finally 'get it' how to grow status here.

My schooling is coming along slowly it seems, but I'm definitely 'getting it'! And I'm seriously LOVING it! Praises to God! I have a final test coming up soon. I can't wait to be done with this level.

Late Fall Hike
October, 2011
Wilderness Blueberries were perfectly ripe!

In the last two years, we have had a lot of new people move down our one lane road. All have turned out to be very nice people. That is a blessing! It was strange to have such friendly people around, after living here 13 years with complete opposite people.

Late October, 2011 hike.
New area we hiked several times this summer.
It's my new favorite piece of heaven.
Photo of hubby.. almost on top of the world.

One couple in their late 60's, purchased horses after they moved in. To be exact, they purchased 5 different horses and leased one, over a period of 1 1/2 years, trying to find a good match for them selves. Unfortunately, it is not easy to just go out into the horse market and find a good match. Not all sellers tell the truth about the horse, especially now, people are desperate to sell their horses, as it is so expensive to feed them. (In our area, we have paid $18 a bale. Sheesh! We bought it once, because we had to.) During this entire time period, they have been gracious to us, by letting us take their manure for our compost. What a blessing!

Hubby would talk with them whenever they were outside, but he never mentioned that we knew anything about horses, nor that we had owned them previously. He did not want to commit me to something I had no desire to be involved with. As we got to know them a bit more, I mentioned my background with horses. Well that was the beginning of endless questioning of "When do you want to ride?" For one and a half years, I continued to put them off, giving legitimate excuses for not accepting the invitation. Looking back, I was afraid if I accepted their invite, I would have to face the reality of what I had lost. For me, it was better to just 'remember' the past with horses. They were my whole life, years ago. Finally, the beginning of July, I felt the nudge of the Holy Spirit, and accepted. I have not regretted one precious moment!

Driving up mountain for late Fall, 2011 hike.

After 12 years of being out of the saddle, I was so extremely nervous, very fearful of facing the reality of how much of my horsemanship skills I had lost. My first step into the stirrup after such a long absence, felt like I was being interviewed for a new job. My palms were sweaty, and I tried my best to fight off the nervous tension, so the horse would not feel it. My heart raced at a high speed, there was such an adrenaline rush. I'm certain they felt it anyhow.

My first thoughts once sitting on their backs: they were so powerful, this could be seriously dangerous.

I don't recall these same thoughts while growing up in the saddle.

First day, July, 2011
Sonny and Kris.

I wear a helmet when riding horses I don't know.
I have experienced being knocked out, via an unplanned dismount,
many years ago.

All went well. What went from two hour weekend rides, soon turned into riding after work daily, and has continued right into the dark, cold winter nights with me getting two and a half hours in the saddle after work, six days a week.

Day two
Danny and Kris
July, 2011

As it turned out, they needed my help, and

I needed them.

My View
Atop of 16.2 hands
Sonny & me
November, 2011

Hubby has been very supportive and encouraging, especially at first when I questions some things on 'how to' or 'why' with the horses. He had no issues with my leaving him with evening chores or an evening meal to prepare. I give continued praise to the Lord for this opportunity. Words can't express my gratitude.

A Saturday morning,
on the cold, damp trail.

Sonny and Kris
November, 2011

So as of late, my daily routine is spent between bible study, studying for school, riding, and renewing my horsemanship knowledge via reading, DVDs, and attending natural horsemanship clinics.

Oh, and getting to work on time Monday to Friday (grin).

In our memories:
Riley
July, 2011

Wishing each of you, a blessed winter season.

Until next time,
Lord's Blessing!
Kris

Give thanks to the God of heaven, For His loving kindness is everlasting. Psalm 137:26 nasb

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 03:43:00 +0000

Spontaneity!

It's what we denied ourselves. Daily life for the last six years has been planned, researched, practiced, and kept limited. We kept our nose to the grindstone, and didn't look up.

I did not find it bothersome until this year. I liked the ongoing trail we have journeyed, burning off the dross of societies taught ways.

It's been good and freeing.

We have not reached our ending point. There are still aspirations to seek out. And always, much more to learn.

But now...

Change is coming. Shifting direction? Possibly. The Lord's hand has been guiding the doors open and close. You know it is His hand, as no one else knows the unplanned occurrences aligning. It is not by chance. I don't believe that.

Here are a few photo's of our recent 'spontaneous' early morning hike.

~Sub-Alpine forest looking up~

~October Morning Hike~
The photo doesn't capture the 'aweness' of this forest.

~Mountainside Blueberries and Fog~

~Elevation 5500 feet plus~
~35 degrees F~

~Two Black Tail Does~

Grazing in heavy fog.
We almost did not see them.

~Sooty Grouse~

There were two.

The other was over the hillside to the left, in the tall grass.
They were very calm, not scared of us.

Just maybe...
they sensed we came in peace.

~Foggy Mountain~

Can you see it?

The landscape peeked in and out at us as we hiked.

~Atop of Mountain Peak~

Looking down the side of the mountain.
Heavy Fog one side...
Clear sunshine on the other.

As we sat at the top of the mountain to rest, we ate sliced apples, and homemade trail mix. We had passed only two people coming down the trail earlier, but not another soul was heard or seen. It was purely wonderful! The quietude emitted. Neither of us spoke for a long time. I jotted down on a scrap of paper the following words...

Listen. Hear tranquil. Feel quiet.

My heart's joyful in this land.

Hear the wind in the firs.

Observe deep.

The cool white mist drifts.

No words spoken.

Seek change.

I am ready.

Thank you for stopping by for a visit.

Until next time,

Look for His blessings!

Kris

Into your hand I commit my spirit; You have ransomed me, O Lord, God of truth. Psalm 31:5nasb

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sat, 17 Sep 2011 05:46:00 +0000

My life feels like a blur. It is hard for me to believe its the end of the third week of September. Three months left of 2011. I'm not sure if that is good. Where did the year go? As much as I don't really want the year to end, I am anxious to get started again seeding, planting and growing tomatoes. Our tomatoes were not very good this year. It's just too cold, too long here in the spring and summer. I will however, start them earlier next year. Also I'm going to find a few good short season, cold tomato varieties. Something that grows in ice! lol

Well, I thought I'd better fill in some gaps of what we have been up to. There is alot to fill in, so I'll work my way backwards. When we arrived home this evening after work, we noticed that neighboring property was starting to line up with trucks with horse trailers and horses. 'We've got KOA out front,' I say to my hubby. We call it KOA after the KOA campgrounds. The neighbor has an arena that is used for timed horse gaming events. It has always seemed odd to me, that right in my back yard is a state recognized (legal size and footing for qualifying points) arena.

~Horses and riders settling in Friday night for the gaming show~

Horses and their riders come from all over the state, rolling in throughout the night before the show is to start. Sometimes we have stayed up late into the evening, watching these people unload horses by flashlight or headlights of another vehicle. Once the horses are unloaded, the horseowners set up their own portable pens of woven electric wire, which is powered by a 6 or 12 volt battery. In the morning we will awake to the field lined with trucks, horse trailers, horses covered with their blankets, water buckets and majoriety of the horses quietly munching their hay. They know the routine. With the outbreak of EVH-1 (equine herpes virus) this year there were fewer shows here.

~Tractor disking arena at night, prepping for next day~

On another note, since the outlook of the real estate in our area has not been good for the past few years, and does not appear to be changing anytime soon, it looks as if we may be here a while. It has been hard for me to find peace about this, but it is coming. We had worked so hard to disengage from the mainstream ways and learned all we could about self reliant living. For five years it was all we did, lived, and breathed. People thought we were crazy. We did not care. We lost alot of our friends, as there really isn't much we have in common anymore. We had a vision and a goal. It was what we believed in (and still do). It was(still is) a good and honest way to live. We no longer need 'things' just because they are available to us. We are not consumers anymore. It feels grand to walk in a store and have no desire to purchase something that is unnecessary.

By December 2010, we came up 10 months short on funds, which was due to the economy dropping out back in 2008 here. In order to keep our jobs, we had to take pay cuts. It has been a humbling experience for me. I have learned alot about myself during this time period, which has been a true blessing.

So while we are waiting for our move to happen, we are going to be adding on and remodeling a few things, which will make living here more in agreement with our current lifestyle. We won't change things too much. Our woodshed is one area we decided to start with. It's actually roofed right now. This photo is from two weeks ago. It took my hubby 1 day to build. It will sure be much nicer to be able to get out of the rain or snow.

~Adding on our woodshed~

We have changed our eating habits a bit this past year. I don't bake bread or cakes, cookies, pies like I used to. Everyday, I used to bake something. Now, I bake maybe two times a month. Over the Labor Day Holiday weekend, I made this Banana Nut Cake.

The cake was suppose to last us four days. It lasted only one and a half days. I had to get a picture quick, when I saw there was nothing left but this small piece. When I decided to make it, I did not think it would be anything special.

However, I was wrong. I don't know if it was because we do not eat cakes, cookies and pies much, or if it was indeed good. But it did not last. So that tells me, I will be making this again.

Here is the recipe I used:

2 1/3 C fresh ground organic soft white wheat flour

1 2/3 C. Sucanut- organic (sugar)

3 bananas- organic (mashed)

2/3 C. walnuts- organic (broken in med. size pieces by hand)

1/3 C. Olive oil, organic, first cold press

2/3 C. buttermilk (I made mine from organic non-dairy milk and organic vinegar)

3 eggs from our hens

1 1/4 tsp. baking powder (aluminum free)

1 1/4 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt (I used Redmond Salt)

Beat all ingredients together (I mixed it all by hand, but you can use an electric mixer).

Pour into greased pan (I used 9X13X2 Pyrex).

Bake at 350 degrees for 40-50 min. depending on your oven. (test with toothpick)

Cool, then frost with Vanilla Frosting, if you desire. (we ate it without frosting, as you can see).

Serves 15, or 2 pigs like us. (grin)

Enjoy!

Tomorrow, (Saturday), we are attending a small local fiber festival. As always, I'm looking forward to seeing wool, wool, and yes, more wool. There will be various sheep and even alpaca's! The breeder I purchased my sheep from, wanted me to bring my spinning wheel and spin with others. It was the plan, but my wool never got fully carded enough to take.

~Clover, my boss ewe~
~She's super sweet~
~She's ready to be sheared Again!~

Until next time,

Look for the blessings in your day!

Kris

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 17:26:00 +0000

He left us this morning in my hubby's arms...

It's always hard to loose a member of the family...

He worried...

He watch over...

He helped in his way...

He always wanted to be outside with us...

He was extremely sensitive...

He was full of love...

He was forgiving...

He was a real sweetie...

He gave his whole heart until the end...

and fought to live,

even when we said... 'Go, We will be OK'...

We will miss him terribly...

'Riley'

March, 28, 2000 - August 24, 2011

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 06:38:00 +0000

It's been way too long! Being on line has had to take a back seat to my daily life. As of late my days blur together. I can no longer keep track of what I did just yesterday. It doesn't matter. I keep my focus forward, marching upward.

Here are a few pic's to share of the 'happenings' since I last posted.

~A late in the day, unplanned, quick hike, at the end of May, 2011.~

~ A favorite spot of mine! ~

~1880's local homestead cabin~

~Looking through our east living room window in early June, 2011.~

~Lily-12 yo (left) Riley- 11 yo (right)~

~Pembroke Welsh Corgi's~

~This year, they started showing their old age.~

~They have always been high energy dogs.~

~Much more laying around, slower and stiffer to stand up and move.~

~My heart drops when I see them feeling so old.~

~Our Barley crop~

~July, 2011~

~May, 2011~

~Trip to Montana~

~Seeking Land~

~Rain, cold, lots of flooding~

~Photo taken through windshield~

~Montana Barn, I-90~

~Romney Natural Color Wool~

~LOVE the color!~

~Awaiting picking, then into the carder.~

~My continuous project this summer.~

~4th of July Pass~

~I-90 Idaho~

~One day hope to stop here.~

~July, 2011~

~Photo taken through windshield~

~CVM Sheep~

~American Romeldale~

~Reflection Farm~

~Black Sheep Gathering,~

~Eugene Oregon~

~June 2011~

~Hoping to add to my flock~

~Their wool is wonderfully soft to the skin!~

~Montana Homestead~

~I-90~

~July, 2011~

~Natural Color Romney Wool from my girls~

~Sorting the colors of wool-- within part of one fleece~

~Piles of dark gray, then lighter gray~

~My continued summer project~

~Antique Swap Meet~

~ Finds cost $6~

~FUN!~

~Brooks, OR~

~June, 2011~

~Montana, North I-15~

~Landscape~

~Photo taken through windshield~

~Seeking land~

~July, 2011~

~Waiving 'Hello' to all~

~Idaho friends, as we pass through.~

~Snow and rain mixed weather~

~May, 2011~

~Photo taken through windshield~

~Montana Barn~

~Gold Creek~

~Seeking Land~

~May, 2011~

~Lolo National Forest~

~I-90- Montana~

~May, 2011~

~Trying to get more time on the wheel,~

~when I'm not exhausted in the evenings.~

~20 minute minimum time commitment, usually lasting into 45 minutes.~

~Wool Types~

~From left: Silver Gray, Natural Color Romney (one of my girls) blended with Alpaca.~

~White: Romney-Targee cross (local purchase)~

~Black: Alpaca (local purchase)~

~Light Gray: Natural Color Romney (mine) blended with the purchased Romney-Targee~

~Getting the feel of each!~

I realize I have not included any photo's of the current state of our growing plots. It's not done intentionally, just can't find them very quick in the 368 photo's I have taken since my last blog post. Yikes! I've got to get a handle on all of this, before things get too far out of control. The veggies are doing good, except the corn, again. Weather is just too cool and cloudy still. Our highs are averaging 68 degrees. We could sure use some warm weather. Can you folks in the mid-west send some my way?

Until next time,

Blessings,

Kris

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12 nasb

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 05:14:00 +0000

Untimely or is it...

(Kris, heading down the side of the mountain)

to share a few photos of day two,

snow shoeing on

January 2, 2011.

(Yep, that is me)

Since snow is being forecasted on Thursday here,

I don't think these are too out of season to share.

(me, again)

The sky continued to be clear and bright!

The temperatures were not as cool as the day before.

The camera did not capture the overall beauty.

And for that I'm sorry I can not share.

The blue in the back of this photo is a shadow of

mountains, trees, and river.

We hiked around on top of the mountain at first,

and then decided to follow a goat trail down the side of the mountain.

Taken by the beauty of the scenery,

we were unaware of how far we were walking down

this trail, until we stopped and looked back.

Wow! We had gone along ways!

We both agreed we should turn back,

as it was a long ways to the top.

(My hubby, hiking up)

We did not take any photos going down the trail,

as we were concentrating on where we were

going to take our next steps.

There was melting snow in some areas,

so we had to be aware of where we were stepping.

A wrong step, and we could find ourselves

in a dangerous situation.

(Hubby, taking in the view across the way)

Sometimes as I was walking down the steep trail

my snowshoes did not grasp into the icy snow,

and my foot would slip.

It only took a couple of times of that action

before I decided to pay full attention to

the placement of my feet, as well as

making sure my pole on the outer ledge

of this trail was good and stable

when I took a step.

Although you can not get a good feel from the photo above,

this is a vertical 100 foot plus drop off

on the trail.

The trail in this area was very narrow,

as there had been a land slide right here.

At this section, we really were

walking the width of a narrow goat trail.

The photo above is of my hubby

at the top of the mountain

where our truck was parked.

Just a pretty mountain view,

don't you think?

Thank you for stopping by for a visit, and viewing our snowshoe walk.

Blessings,

~Kris

God saw all that He made, and behold, it was very good... Genesis 2:31a (nasb)

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 02:30:00 +0000

Just in from the Field...

Fresh!

and

Alive!

Purple Spring Broccoli,

along with

regular green broccoli, Red Russian Kale, and Blue Curled Kale.

Some of this will be use for raw eating,

and some will be made into a quiche for the coming week.

Our first year to grow this Purple Spring Broccoli was two years ago.

We just happen to stumble upon growing it.

Nothing is more welcoming right now, than this fresh produce,

after a long dreary, cold, gray winter.

The added bonus for me...

Purple is my favorite color!

These are the seeds from the Purple Spring Broccoli

I saved two years ago, off the original plants we grew here.

They were harvested in late September.

One last photo to share...

Our ~Always~ broody Buff Orpington hen.

She is a really nice hen, even when broody.

Some broody hens are wicked, requiring gloves ~AND~ a lid off a bucket (to move the hen off the eggs... when trying to collect eggs). Yes, we have had to use those two items. Sounds crazy, I know.

(~grin~)

We finally had a couple of nice days, and were able to accomplish quite abit.

Praises to the Lord!

As I was outside today finishing up a few chores, I noticed the wind turned crisp.

It felt cold enough for snow.

Back inside the house,

I turn on NOAA weather radio...

Sure enough, NOAA is reporting snow Monday in the late morning hours.

Well, I welcome it.

It is hard to believe I am wishing for more cold days,

being's I prefer the warm sunny weather.

I need several more weeks of cold weather,

as I'm way behind on shearing, and

I'm trying not to get stressed out about it. (~grin~)

Hope you are all doing well!

Blessings,

~Kris~

Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. Ephesians 4:20 nasb

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 04:18:00 +0000

I am sharing the list of sites I monitor for the west coast radiation fall out. You have to remember, the government links, may be censored. Meaning, they may not be completely accurate. We are only being told what they want us to know. Alternative news sources are appearing more accurate. Some links may be helpful even to those further across the United States or even Europe, etc. as the situation progresses. The sad part of this is, it is not only affecting Japan or the west coast, but the entire northern hemisphere.

http://www.intellicast.com/Storm/Hurricane/PacificSatellite.aspx?animate=true

http://modernsurvivalblog.com/nuclear/jet-stream-animation-japan-to-usa-fallout/

https://cdxnode64.epa.gov/radnet-public/showMap.do

http://www.radiationnetwork.com/index.htm

http://www.naturalnews.com/index.html

http://www.iaea.org/

http://www.nei.org/newsandevents/information-on-the-japanese-earthquake-and-reactors-in-that-region/

Also, I thought I'd share a few thoughts for natural sources of iodine containing foods:

Kelp, Dulse, etc. (seaweeds)
Chlorella
Spirulina

Increase the following in your daily diet and eat fresh~alive~ foods (if all possible):

Onions, Garlic
Dark leafy greens
Colorful fruits and vegetables

If sensitive to iodine, use Chlorella (cell wall cracked), as it is a great protector and chelator of radioactive metals from body. If you can't find Chlorella, use Spirulina.

The goal is to increase the amount of stable iodine in the blood, so the thyroid will absorb the stable iodine, instead of the radioactive iodine.

Also be aware in the coming days, where your food is coming from. I am anxious to see what the organic farmers will be doing in CA. During the winter months, until our local growing season is underway, our food co-op purchases fruits and vegetables from there.

If you have a website(s) you have found helpful, please leave a comment/link. I'm sure other people will be appreciative as well.

Praying for all,

God Bless,
~Kris

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Fri, 18 Mar 2011 19:08:00 +0000

Please!!!

Repent

and

Pray!

Mainstream media is not reporting the truth about the nuclear fall out! (in any country)

It is alot worse!

Do NOT be Deceived!

Seek Truth!

I am VERY troubled. The west coast is to be hit with the fall out beginning today, Friday. I pray most of the fall out has dropped into the ocean. This fall out will eventually trickle across the U.S., as well as AK, and into Canada, per the jet stream map I studied. As much as hubby and I mind our own lives, taking responsibility for ourselves, there is no escaping harm from outside sources. My soul despairs. I feel defeated. I pray for people to wake up and seek truth, before it's too late. I also pray for protection for everyone and all things. This will change our lives for a long time!

May God have mercy on us.

God Bless!

~Kris

Psalm 18: 1-3a... I Love You, O'Lord my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised...

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 16:35:00 +0000

On September 1, 2010, I tried to post about a project that was completed. For some reason, Blogger must of been having a glitch in the system. I could not get the entry displayed correctly.

So I thought I'd try again.

In October of 2009, I began this project. For many years, I had been wanting to get around to making these stained glass panels for the sidelights of our front door. The panels were finally completed and hanging in place mid March, 2010.

Above is one of the 14 panels I made, to complete this project. I traced the pattern onto the chosen color glass, cut the glass, and then sanded the edges. Just this part alone (for one panel) took close to four hours. I'm sure, if I did this often enough, I could cut down the time frame.

After choosing the color layout, tracing the pattern, cutting, and sanding, the next step was to foil the edges of the glass. Foiling did not take nearly as long, about 1/2 hour per panel. The final step was soldering the pieces together. Hubby helped me with this part, as he is much quicker at soldering, and I was getting pretty anxious to get this project completed.

Once all 14 panels were completed, hubby made frames. He used Alder for the wood, and routered out a center grove for the panels to slide into. He sanded the frames, and applied a clear finish to the wood. Eye hooks were placed at the top of the frames, and small sized chain added to hang the completed stained glass panels.

~Panels complete~

~Panels in place at front door~

This was my first stained glass project of this size. I have done two small projects previous to this one. One thing I was uncertain about was the choosing of colors. There are tons of colors and patterns of glass to choose from. I did run out of some colors that I favored over others, and used some I did not think would work together.

The ending result, I was pleasantly surprised. I often find myself stopping at the front door and looking at all the color combinations and how they seem to 'go together'.

Thank you for stopping by for a peek.

Have a blessed day!

~Kris

Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. Romans 12:17 nasb

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sun, 27 Feb 2011 06:07:00 +0000

This past week

~Driving out of town, after work~

we were granted cold and snow (lowest temp. 17 degrees and 7" snow) once again. The snowy weather and low temperatures do not last long, which is nice when you have to be away from home all day. Coming home to a cold house is not enjoyable to me. However, about an hour after the wood stove has been lit, the temperature inside our house finally warms to 65 degrees, and my outlook improves.

Fire starting in the wood stove is the priority when we first arrive home during the fall, and winter months.

Unloading the empty lunch containers into the sink, leaves me with a sink full of dishes to tend to, before I get the evening meal started. Dinner is a last priority.

A tribe of companions eagerly but politely wait, pacing amongst my feet, making their presence known, as I dish up each bowl of kibble.

In the laundry room, warm water is filling 5 gallon buckets to carry out to the ducks, goats, and sheep during these freezing temperature days. Chicken waters are emptied and feeders brought inside until the next morning.

While the water is still filling, I gather some herbs to give to one of our aged doe's who has blood in her urine.

I help shovel pathways again tonight, as it is too much for my hubby to do alone right now. He restocks firewood on the back porch for use through the night and in the morning.

Tiredness doesn't fully hit me until I walk into the dark, but warm house. I receive a blessing that lifts my spirits and lessens my tiredness. I love this time of day.

There is a peace that I feel at this moment.

I love the blue hue of this natural light.

~Looking out dining room window~

(Ignore the date. It's incorrect.)

~Our barn~

(photo grainy due to window screen)

~Spinning Wheel~

I pray you have a wonderful day!

Thank you for stopping by!

Blessings to each of you!

Kris

P.S. This entry was written Friday night. I did not have enough time to get it blogged.

Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 01:10:00 +0000

Our New Year's Eve Night...

December 31, 2010

There was no snow on New Year's Eve here. The temperatures were in the low 20's.
We decided to have a bonfire anyway.

The sky was clear, so we could see the stars.

The fire was warm.
It was a relaxing night.

The food was delicious!
Our favorite dish for celebrating. Full of vegetables from our farm: carrots, onions, sweet peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, corn, various herbs: Thyme, Cayenne, Oregano, and Dill.

~Vegetable Herb Cake~

To continue our celebrating,

the next day, January 1, 2011

we headed to the mountains for half a day of snowshoeing.

The snow pack was 81 inches.

We were blessed with beautiful sunny weather!

Temperatures were in the 20's.

Once we got walking and out into the sun,

the gloves and jacket had to come off.

You can give yourself a good workout

hiking straight up the side of the mountain. (grin)

Hubby is taking a break in the sun, watching snowboarders.

We find them interesting to watch.

There were alot of snowboarders, down hill skiers,

cross country skiers, tubing, and snowshoers.

The masses of people were unexpected to us.

Grooming a trail for cross country skiers...

Or... maybe it was actually for the downhill skiers we saw... (which were crazier than the snowboarders), they were skiing off the side of a very steep grade of the mountain, dodging trees. Crazy!

This trail would give the down hill skiers a path to walk back up out of the gully, once the groomer makes it to the bottom. Some of the skiers had snowshoes strapped to their packs, and once they skied down, they took their ski's off and put the snowshoes on to walk up the hillside in the deep snow. We also saw some skiers who 'walked' (without snowshoes) up out of the gully.

Those people were pretty tired once they got to the top. The thrill of skiing off the mountain side must have been well worth it, because we saw them do this several times.

I can't wait for our next outing!

Enjoy your day!

Blessings

Kris

Be on the alert, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13 nasb

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sun, 16 Jan 2011 05:45:00 +0000

January Already?

~Early morning snowy home view from the lower pasture~

Where does the time go any more? I am very grateful for the extra daylight! Last year was one of our most challenging years emotionally, physically, and even spiritually. My hubby works endlessly to keep us moving forward towards our goal. I can see his tiredness, and especially now when the outside temperatures drop into the low 20's. You see, our house is not designed to be heated by a wood stove only (the stove requires wood about every 2 hours when very cold outside... which leads to lack of sleep). My hubby pointed out to me the other day, 'The whole front of our house has no insulation as it is all glass, so we loose alot of heat there'. We have chosen now, to live as we intend to, once we make our move. We believe it is better (for us) to get into the mindset, or develop a pattern of living at this time, which will result in a bit easier living as we move into a more challenging environment.

The first week of November, 2010, I began to not feel well. Not the common cold, stomach flu, or even tiredness, but pain. Pain is a sign that your body is telling you something is wrong. It needs attention now.

The high stress of managing a once successful small business which now is hanging by threads (due to economic crash 2007), fragmented extended family relationships, studying for my final exam and desperately wanting to get it, seeing my brother in law loosing his battle with cancer (heart wrenching), understanding where this country is heading, and the financial setback of our 'time frame' for moving, (which passed), I suspect...

I allowed it *ALL* to get to me.

At my lowest point, at the end of November, I put on paper the following:

Journal Entry of Thoughts~November 29, 2010

I'm over my head and sinking fast. For the past month, I have not felt physically well. I seem to have acquired a pain that is uncommon to me; the pain under my rib does not seem to ease.

I believe the pain is due to stress, fear, and anger.

I feel as if I have battle fatigue.

Traveling with my best friend, into this self-sustaining way of life, has broadened my shoulders and toughened me to where I do not even recognize myself, but not as of late.

I am worn down.

Since dedicating myself to our journey, I push myself to 'Do Better', 'Get Educated', 'Understand', 'Seek Truth', and lastly, 'Don't Be Fooled'.

Within our change of lifestyle, my eyes have been opened to many things I never knew existed or even functioned. I was ignorant. Things have been wrong for a very long time.

These days I consider myself to be very 'aware', though not fully understanding... yet.

Turmoil of anger, fear, and hopelessness I have gained with this awareness. I feel it echo through my body in a harmful vibration. I can't seem to shake it.

I pray for help.

I want peace.

Where is that peace I once knew?

Our Heavenly Father seems so distant. Life seems so dark.

I ask for help to be stronger. I need courage to continue.

I recite the verse Joshua 1:9 Be strong and courageous: Do not be terrified; Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you where ever you go.

I wonder now, what is the Lord's plan for this new awareness?

Several days after journaling my thoughts to paper and praying scripture, the pain began to lessen. Praise the Lord!

Two weeks into November, I changed my diet completely. My diet mainly consisted of fresh oranges and fresh carrot juice, herbs for relaxing, and daily Castor Oil pack to my rib area. I did not have an appetite for anything else. My body felt like it needed cooling...it felt hot internally (not a fever), and definitely out of balance.

The fresh orange is one of our Heavenly Father's greatest gifts to us. It contains predigested nutrients which are immediately accepted into the human body. The fresh orange strengthens the body and is rich in alkalizing salts. The fresh carrot juice is loaded with potassium, sodium, and calcium, as well as many other nutrients the body requires for health. It is very good for the mucus membranes, and great cleanser for the lymph, blood, and liver. (Note: before this point in time, I never had a desire to drink carrot juice. It was not appealing to me. However, when I first drank it, I found that I craved the taste, and could not get enough. Now, I continue to drink it every morning and sometimes, even at night).

Fresh fruit or fresh vegetable juices are very good for the body, as they don't require the body to 'work' (digest) to get the nutrients. When a person is not feeling well, I believe it is a good idea to let the body rest, and not over load it with work (digesting food). Our Heavenly Father has created our bodies beautifully AND amazing in its functions. We as humans have a huge habit of destroying 'His' creations.

Although I eat healthy, I believe due to the high stress I allowed to take hold, my body turned toward acidic conditions, which is very bad. That is when disease can take hold. I continue daily to watch the stress load. When things get too much at work, I make sure that night, I do something I really enjoy. I also make sure to get time in on the treadmill at night. So far it has been helping. Glory to our Heavenly Father!

~Our kitchen table 'look' for the past one and a half months~

~Between study breaks... I quilt~

(Note: ignore the date...it is incorrect)

As of late, I have decided for my best interest, to keep my mind on the future, and leave behind those that do not see eye to eye. I have given alot of myself, more than I should have. It is a fault of my own.

I was completely amazed to have passed my first semester of school with a 95 percent. I am very relieved. I worried. My hubby was not surprised. He had more confidence in me, than I did.

~January 8, 2011 was the first time I baked bread since October, 2010~

~An added treat... "Rustic Mountain Fruit Cake' ...for hubby~

I wish each of you peace and wellness this coming year!

Until next time,

Lord's Blessings to You!

~Kris

Where there is faith, there is love.

Where there is love, there is peace.

Where there is peace, there is God.

Where there is God, there is no need.

~Anonymous

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 03:43:00 +0000

Happy Solstice!

~Pacific NW Mtns. after storm blew through. November, 2010~

The lines in the snow are from snowboarders.

We are finally descending to L-O-N-G-er daylight!!

Yippee!!!

Driving up. Checking out the summit scenery after snow storm. November, 2010

I eagerly look forward to those days once again! My heart really aches for that cheerful sunshine.

~*~

Praise the Lord for the continued renewing of each season.

Hiking in Pacific NW ~May, 2010

~*~

I really miss blogging here... AND visiting you!

~Kris-- May, 2010 Hike

Lord's Blessing to each of you!

Until Next Time,

~Kris

So Faith comes by hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the preaching [of the message that came from the lips] of Christ [the Messiah himself]. Romans 10:17 Amplified

Hello! Just Checking in...

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 18:25:00 +0000

Greetings to All!

The end of the growing season is here. We have been pulling out the growing plot and putting it to rest for the winter. What a LOT of work!! I think there is more work pulling out the plants, than the preparation of the ground and planting in the spring

I am being pulled in different directions right now. I do not like the pressure I carry lately. I have always enjoyed the normal daily, endless workload, and embrace it, as it comes with this way of living. Lately I find myself resenting the work I do here, at times. I have to stop and remind myself, this pressure is only temporary, just until school is finished.

~Pacific NW Mountain Natural Art~

August, 2010

This year our harvest was an extremely lean one. Our tomatoes and corn gave a good try, but the cold and dark days just won. We will be purchasing some extra onions, carrots, and winter squash for our wintertime use. We still have a small quantity of tomatoes and corn left from last year to use. One things I've learned in the past, is to never use all your harvested items from the previous year, if you can help it.

~Pacific NW Mountains~

July, 2010

From the beginning of this blog, I have not mentioned where we will be moving to. It was not an oversight, but done intentionally as we are still unsure where the Lord is leading us. We have come to a point where our eyes have been opened to many different possibilities of where to live and how to live (on grid or off grid). Sometimes with many options it makes decision making more difficult.

What I can share is that we will be staying in the Pacific Northwest, and that we are looking at rural mountain areas. We have looked completely at two states, Oregon and Washington. The last two states we are considering are Idaho and Montana.
`

~Kris on day hike in Pacific NW Mountains~

May, 2010

I am finding difficulty in school.  I continue to seek the Lord for guidance in this matter. My schooling was not something we considered when we began our pilgrimage back in 2005.  After three years into it, we realized it was something that needed to be learned. I pray daily, Lord willing that I make it to the end. It is our desire to take what is being learned, and glorify Him and His beautiful creation.

On Friday, my book work and two essays were submitted. Now I begin to study for the final test which will be third week of November. The pressure is on and I am feeling the tension.   Praise the Lord, hubby has been able to do alot of the 'kitchen' work, making meals and washing dishes to give me more time in the books. What a blessing!

Until next time...

Have a blessed day!

Joyfully,

Kris

Praise the Lord! Praise God in His sanctuary; Praise Him for His mighty expanse.       Psalm 150:1 NASB

Sorry for mix up...

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:21:00 +0000

Sorry for the mix up... there is no "Project Complete...Take a Peek". I had to delete it.

For whatever reason, the last two posts had not appeared correctly on my blog.

It is frustrating.

Recently, one way I have found to try to post more frequently, is if I can get the photo's up in one 'computer time session', then I can come back when I have 1/2 hour or so, and put the words in, it seems to work for me. But not this time.

I'll make another attempt, when I have more time. There is too much to do this morning before work, as I have company arriving right after I get off work, and I'm not prepared!!

I ask myself, 'How does daily life get so busy, when we have been working towards daily living to be more relaxed, less hurried pace?

Until next time,

Blessings to you, and enjoy your day!

~Kris

A Farmstead Pilgrimage's... "Spicy Farmstead Mustard"

noreply@blogger.com (A Farmstead Pilgrimage...) — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 14:32:00 +0000

Note: This is the second attempt to get this posted, sorry for mix up...

Greetings to all!

Since the Labor Day Holiday is coming upon us in the United States, I thought it would be a good time to post a recipe we use to make our own mustard.

I normally don't post recipes due to my limited computer time, and as we connect to the web via dial up, making posting a bit time consuming. I also am not certain that readers would find what we eat very appealing. However, I thought I'd share this, as there just may be someone who may be interested.

If you are used to eating packaged prepared foods, this won't taste good. ~grin~

Yet, if your the adventurous type, give it a try. I also encourage you, when making anything from scratch, 'make it to your liking'. Example in this recipe, add more or less of honey and spices in this recipe.

I must give Warning, this mustard is spicy HOT!! The 'hotness' seems to mellow a bit after about two weeks. However, we have used this mustard after 48 hours of it being made. We have found it a wonderful ingredient to our potato salad, as it gives the salad a bit of a 'kick', just how we like it! An added benefit, the ingredients used, are all very healthy for you. I recommend using as many organic ingredients you can find. Your body will be grateful for the nourishment.

A Farmstead Pilgrimage's... "Spicy HOT Mustard"

Ingredients needed:

1/2 Cup Yellow Mustard Seeds

3/4 Cup ACV (Apple Cider Vinegar)

1/3 Cup Filtered Water

2 tsp. Raw Honey

1/2 tsp. Turmeric

1/2 tsp. Paprika

1/2 tsp. Garlic Granules

3/4 tsp. Salt

Directions:

In a pint canning jar, soak mustard seeds in vinegar and water for 2 days, making sure seeds are covered by liquid.

On third day, place mustard seeds and liquid in blender.

Add raw honey and spices.

Blend until smooth and mixture thickens. (about two minutes, approximately)

You will need to stop the blender ever so often, and help mix the ingredients.

Scoop into a glass canning jar, store in refrigerator, and allow flavors to mingle and begin to mellow.

Enjoy your homemade 'Spicy' Mustard!

We do!

Thank you for stopping by for another visit.

Joyfully,

Kris

~Psalms 111:1~ Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with all my heart, in company of the upright and in the assembly. ~NASB