In the Barnyard: Who are Bohemian Farmgirls?

Bohemian Farmgirl is something that has evolved over years of trying to figure out how to weave all of the meaningful parts of my life together. This is what it means to me, and if it touches part of your soul then my guess is that you are a Bohemian Farmgirl too.

1. Growing a Family--First and foremost, comes family. This may be your biological or chosen family, but whomever your family includes, it's roots dig deep and provide grounding for growth above the surface of the soil.

2. Planting a Farm--Modern homesteading is a way of life for a Bohemian Farmgirl. This may include anything from a windowsill garden to acres of land, buying local and supporting small farms to growing and raising all of your food yourself, and cultivating dreams of homesteading no matter if you live in the city or country.

3. Nurturing a Creative Life--This is the heart of a Bohemian Farmgirl and what brings us all together creating a community of ideas and inspiration. Living a creative life is the wellspring of joy that provides energy to make our dreams reality, no matter what the circumstances. And we all help each other along the way.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

My Custom Homestead: Step 14

As I travel along in Jill Winger's Your Custom Homestead (www.theprairiehomestead.com), I am finding myself a little discouraged.  It happens I suppose, but I want a farm now.  While making the best of my current city life is challenging and rewarding, it still falls short of the peace and serenity of the country life I long for.

Perhaps if I work on Step 14, "Know your local resources," I will find support during these times of feeling the longing of a Barnheart (Jenna Woganrich).  Jill suggests a few starting points for connecting to local resources:  becoming a regular at your local farmers' market, checking Craigslist for homesteading ads, or starting/joining a club.  These are all great ideas, and if I did them myself I would probably find come good company on this trail I am blazing towards my destiny.


Monday, June 16, 2014

Manhattan Farmers' Markets

Asparagus, chicken and mashed potatoes for dinner. 

Melt-in-your-mouth strawberries

Beautiful

Gorgeous radishes

Crispy lettuce

Ahhhh, chamomile

Monday, June 9, 2014

Country Living Fair: Rhinebeck

The first thing I noticed when my sister, my daughter and I stepped out of the car at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, New York, was how quiet it was.  Ahhhh, peace.  No sirens, no trucks, no car horns, no people yelling on the street.  Just the rustle of leaves in the trees and birds chirping.  My ears were ringing from the silence.  It was good to be home.

This is the second year that Country Living has hosted their fair in Rhinebeck.  Since I missed it last year, I was determined to go this year.  We were not disappointed!  So many treasures and ideas, artists loved and new artists discovered.  Only 364 days til the next Country Living Fair!