Old Stone Well Farm

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What Dandelions Taught Me

Who would have thought that dandelions weren’t pesky weeds but rather amazing plants that can be used in so many ways to benefit our health. Ever since becoming an “accidental country pastor” I have changed they way I look at dandelions (thanks to the local farmers who opened my eyes!). I now embrace them for the beautiful plant they are. They have taught me about God’s provision — and God’s love for us. Join me as I share with you some insights I discovered as I tried my hand at making some dandelion wine. Drop me a note and let me know if you will now see dandelions differently? Will you embrace them, too? (And perhaps make your own batch of dandelion wine?!)

Old Stone Well Farm

My Days Are Changing

Schedules to-do lists, routines — I love them all. While having structure in your life is good, sometimes sticking to a beloved routine does more harm than good. I recently discovered this as I begin a new chapter in my life. My old routines just weren’t serving me well and were stressing me out. Come join me as I share some thoughts and tips about breaking free and letting God really make all things new — including your days! As always, share with friends (I have plenty of room for everyone in my old kitchen!). Like, comment and, if you haven’t already, click subscribe on YouTube. I appreciate all your support for my growing YouTube channel.

Blessings!

Old Stone Well Farm

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Heavy Crowns and Responsibilities

Yes, I watched the king’s coronation the other day. I am a royal watcher. But beyond the pomp and pageantry was a powerful reminder for kings and common folk alike: We are all called to care for others. That responsibility might feel heavy at times, but the burden is lightened when we know we don’t do it alone. So come and join me here in Vermont where spring is finally bursting forth at my 18th-century home. And I share an announcement with you.

Old Stone Well Farm

A Quick Hello

Busy but blessed weekend. Yes, this was yesterday.

I had the honor of speaking at the local women’s group. Such a joy as I shared how to build authentic community in an age of technology…taking cues from the local Amish who perfected the art of quilting bees and circle letters (I did a video on this last summer. Check it out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbgm93zcN6g)

And, of course, I had to close with a quote from Wendell Berry who once said, “Community is not made just by communication. It is a practical circumstance. It is composed of people who have a place in common. But it is made by people’s willingness to be neighbors, good and faithful servants, to one another.”

Off to church now…so our time at Old Stone Well Farm will be coming earlier in the week! In the meantime, what does “community” mean to you?

I would love to hear your thoughts as the word is being thrown around a lot.

Old Stone Well Farm

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Comfort in a Crazy World

It’s finally warming up here in Vermont and time to work outdoors. I can’t wait to tend to my garden beds. Admittedly, I didn’t do much to them last year, so I am paying the price now. As I tend to my chores, I keep thinking about the violence in the world and how we need more peace. But where peace? Where do find that comfort we need? I invite you to escape your world for a little bit and join me here at Old Stone Well Farm where I am surrounded by the things that give me comfort in a crazy world. (Like the wonderful early 1800s desk I recently acquired, my cat snuggled in the old cradle, a chicken enjoying the daffodils…these are just a few of my favorite things!) Where do you find comfort?

Old Stone Well Farm

Easter Fables, Easter Truths

From dying eggs and hiding them to being on the lookout for a bunny hopping with a basket full of goodies — how did these tales come about? And where do they fit into the celebration of resurrection? Come and join me here at Old Stone Well Farm and here about the hare window in Germany and what 18th-century children used in place of Easter baskets. And then, later on in the video, sit with me on Sofie’s Hill (named after my first Bernese Mountain dog) and enjoy a beautiful sunrise over the old 18th-century home. What are some of your most beloved Easter traditions? Drop me a note.

Old Stone Well Farm

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Healing from the Sting of Betrayal

The sting of betrayal is painful. Yet during Holy Week I am reminded once again that during those times of betrayal in my life, I do not walk alone. Holy Week is all about betrayals — the people turning on Jesus, Peter denying knowing Jesus and, of course, the ultimate betrayal of Judas. And I have found a way to heal from my own betrayals.

Come and join me as I offer you my tips, and discover a wonderful English springtime fruitcake that is rich in flavor and Holy Week symbolism. I’ve included the link to the recipe here! https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/24995/easter-simnel-cake/

This is an easy version. I don’t use a bundt pan, but a round cake pan and I melt apricot jam and spread it on top before placing a layer of marzipan.

Let me know what you think! Like, comment and remember to go to YouTube and subscribe to Old Stone Well Farm on YouTube!

Old Stone Well Farm

Seven Greens Soup

As we journey through Holy Week, I share last year’s video with you all in which I introduced you to a Swiss Lenten soup, often served on Maundy Thursday, which features 7 greens. If you would like the recipe for this year’s Maundy Thursday supper, let me know. And I will be introducing an other unique Holy Week recipe this Thursday as well as we explore “betrayal at the table” and how God can heal the betrayals in our life. Stay tuned!

Old Stone Well Farm

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Hope Found in a Burn Pile

Well my friends here at Old Stone Well Farm, I just had to be with you for the start of Holy Week. Yes, it’s Palm Sunday and once again I am waving the pussy willows rather than palms — a very European tradition. But these pussy willows are extra special this year as I found them in the farm’s burn pile. Yes, new life can emerge from the ashes and rubble. Just a little background to today’s video. As many of you know, I have many projects that I am working on right now. This video almost didn’t happen because I was swamped (I was on a newspaper assignment for a good part of the day and had just finished filing my story and pictures!). But I felt a tug at my heart to be with you. So, I filmed this in my old beat up jeans and running shoes and I didn’t even bother with an extra coat of mascara. May you find hope today in your burn piles! Thank you for being part of Old Stone Well Farm. I can’t wait to celebrate Easter with you.