A DAY OF FUN WITH FARM FRIENDS
October 20, 2024
FROM CHICKENS TO ALPACAS: EXPLORING THE DELIGHT OF SPENDING A DAY WITH FARM ANIMALS
October 5, 2024
Nestled in the picturesque landscape in a rural part of Prior Lake, MN, is Whispering Oaks Alpacas where they offer a delightful escape into the world of hobby farming. This charming farm invites visitors to engage with a variety of friendly farm animals, from curious goats to soft, fluffy alpacas. One of the most unique experiences is taking an alpaca for a walk - a joyful activity that brings both laughter and a sense of connection to the animal. The alpacas, with their gentle demeanor, often have minds of their own, and I found it a bit hilarious to negotiate walking terms with my fleecy companion. Initially, he was set on stopping every few steps to munch on the grass; however, after a little persuasion, we struck a deal that kept both of us happy as we strolled along the trail, I'd stop every 10-15 feet to allow him to eat only if he kept the pace and not stop every foot to eat grass. 😂 That agreement worked out well and kept us moving along.
In addition to the interactive experiences on the farm, Whispering Oaks boasts a quaint little shop located inside the owner's home, filled with goodies crafted from alpaca fleece. From warm hats to soft mittens, each item reflects the quality and comfort of this unique fiber. Visiting the shop felt like unearthing hidden treasures, and I couldn't resist the charm of these handmade products so I bought my daughter a Christmas gift. As I wandered around I also spotted the enchanting little goats for sale, whose playful antics warmed my heart instantly. Mojo was my favorite. His adorable face and lively energy reminded me of how much I wished I'd been a hobby farmer.
Growing up I had often fantasized about becoming a sheep farmer, inspired by episodes of Little House on the Prairie. The dream of harvesting wool and spinning it into clothing painted a vivid picture of a life intertwined with animals. Although that dream remains unfulfilled, my visit to Whispering Oaks Alpacas reignited that childhood passion. It serves as a reminder of the simple joys that farm animals provide. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or a fun outing with a stubborn alpaca, Whispering Oaks Alpacas caters to both. It's a beautiful place to appreciate the connections we share with these wonderful creatures and to create cherished memories, even if it's just for a couple hours on a lovely Minnesota day.
APPLE PICKING TIME
September 22, 2024
Today, my daughter and I headed out to Applewood Orchard for a delightful day of apple picking. Every year when we visit feels like a mini celebration of fall, and today was no different. We wandered through the rows of trees, excited to find our favorite variety: Sweet Tango. We love these apples not only for their delicious crunch but also for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
In previous years, we often filled our bags with the plan of making applesauce, but this time I felt adventurous. I've decided to try my hand at making apple cider and some yummy apple bars, guided by the recipes from Comfy Belly. The thought of transforming our harvest into warm, spiced cider and buttery apple bars has me giddy with anticipation. I can already picture us in the kitchen, savoring the comforting autumn aromas wafting through our home. I promise to keep everyone posted on how these delicious creations turn out!
WE SAID GOODBYE TO OUR PRECIOUS BOY
August 9, 2024
WE NEVER MISS A CHANCE TO GO BERRY PICKING
July 10, 2024
Who doesn't love berry picking? Every summer my family and I have embraced the delightful tradition of heading out to our favorite farms with baskets in hand, eager to harvest sweet gifts. Since my children were babies, berry picking has become a cherished ritual that fills our lives with joy and laughter. Our favorites to pick are strawberries and blueberries, but when our beloved strawberry farm closed its doors after the owners retired, and our go-to blueberry farm suffered mightily due to the last two years of a drought, we faced the bittersweet challenge of finding new locations of your annual escapade.
This year our search lead us to the picturesque Little Hill Berry Farm. What a gem it turned out to be! The moment we arrived, we were greeted by rows upon rows of luscious blueberries and vibrant currants waiting to be picked. The air was filled with the sweet scent of ripe berries, and the sight was simply enchanting. The small store on-site was a delightful bonus, stocked with an array of locally made items that showcased the region's artisanal talents. It felt good to support local farmers while enjoying the fruits of our labor - and speaking of fruits, the fact that the berries are organize only adds to the charm of this wonderful farm.
If you're a berry-picking enthusiast and find yourself in Minnesota, Little Hill Berry Farm is an absolute must visit. It's more than just a fun family outing; it's a chance to reconnect with nature, indulge in organic delights, and create unforgettable memories together. Each year may bring new challenges and changes, but the joy of berry picking will forever remain a beloved tradition in our lives.
IT'S TIME FOR SUMMERWEEN!!
June 20, 2024
Did you know there's a Halloween celebration at the start of summer? I certainly didn't until last year when my daughter excitedly shared the concept with me. The whole idea of Summerween, a quirky celebration that stems from the fictional town of Gravity Falls, Oregon, intrigued me. Gravity Falls is a beloved Disney cartoon that my girls used to adore, and even though it's long off the air, my youngest remains devoted to its charm. The unique blend of autumnal festivities int he bright day of summer resonated with her, and a group of friends eagerly embraced the chance to celebrate this whimsical event.
As Summerween has transformed into a nationwide phenomenon embraced by young people and Halloween enthusiasts alike, I felt inspired to join in on the fun this year. To spread the word and encourage others to participate, I created this graphic for Instagram, celebrating the delightful spirit of having Halloween at the beginning of summer. It's a chance for those who cherish everything Halloween; candy, costumes, and community - to come together and revel in the joy of this imaginative tradition.
If you're curious about how this enchanting celebration originated, you can check out the Gravity Falls Summerween episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SNEwiG98SM Feel free to share the graphic I created for your own social media posts; let's keep the magic of Summerween alive and thriving in our communities!
OUR FUR FAMILY NEEDS ALL THE GOOD THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS HE CAN GET
February 19, 2024
Our grand-dog has been facing a series of health challenges that has left our family deeply concerned. Recently, we learned that his ongoing issues may be linked to periodontal disease and fractured teeth. it was a terrifying moment when we nearly lost him back in December by some miracle he pulled through, but his recovery hasn't been without complications. Tomorrow he is scheduled to undergo a surgery to have his damaged teeth removed, and the vet will also perform a thorough examination of his mouth to check for any additional problems. The weight of worry is heavy on my heart as I can't shake the anxiety that comes with the thought of him undergoing this procedure.
Throughout this ordeal, he has been on numerous antibiotics to manage the persistent infection stemming from his dental issues, leaving my daughter little choice but to proceed with this surgery. We know that taking care of his teeth is crucial to his recovery, yet the risks associated with anesthesia and the surgery itself in his weakened state loom large in my mind. It's hard to comprehend the possibility of losing him, especially after he fought so hard to recover last December. All we can do is pray for a successful outcome and remain hopeful that he'll emerge healthier and happier in the days to come, ready to wag his little tail and go for the long walks that he loves.
TO BE GRATEFUL
February 17, 2024
Despite my chronic health issues, I am overflowing with gratitude for the many blessings in my life. First and foremost, I cherish the happiness and health of my children. Watching them thrive and enjoy life brings me a profound sense of joy and purpose. Alongside this, I am incredibly thankful for my wonderful husband, whose unwavering support has been a constant source of strength through my struggles. His kindness and encouragement uplift me daily, reminding me that I am never alone in this journey.
Another reason for my gratitude is our beloved grand-dog, who defied the odds and continues to be a vibrant part of our family following a scare last December. His wagging tail and enthusiasm for our daily walks bring an extra layer of jour to our lives, a reminder of the simple pleasures that can ignite happiness even on tougher days. Additionally, I am thankful for our beautiful home, nestled in a location where nature thrives around us. Every day, we have the privilege of witnessing wildlife in our backyard, which adds an enchanting element to our routine.
For many years, I turned to journaling during my moments of sadness, pouring my thoughts onto the page whenever life felt overwhelming. Recently, I've made a conscious shift towards embracing a daily gratitude journal. This practice has transformed my perspective, prompting me to pause and reflect on the positives in my life. By intentionally focusing on what's going well, I've noticed a remarkable improvement in my mood. Through this gratitude journey, I am continuously discovering just how rich my life truly is, revealing layers of appreciation that often go unnoticed amidst my health challenges.
EXPLORING UNCONVENTIONAL METHODS IN MY JOURNEY TO OVERCOME HEALTH CHALLENGES
February 10, 2024
My life was turned upside down in a single night back in October 2018. I went from navigating the typical health challenges that accompany the approach of 50, such as occasional fatigue and aches, to a frantic struggle of survival. It began as an innocuous set of symptoms, but soon spiraled into a whirlwind of medical appointments and consultations - multiple doctors from various specialties scrutinizing my condition, each offering their own theories but no clear answers. I endured numerous treatments for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), a trip to the Mayo Clinic seeking hope and clarity, and even kidney surgery that was both necessary and daunting. After countless diagnoses and misdiagnosis, I found myself entrenched in a battle that seemed unending.