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.
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.
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?
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.
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!
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!
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.
Wandering Souls
There’s a song by folk singer, Kate Rusby, which talks about the wandering soul being found and how often that soul was never really lost. He or she were always surrounded by friends. He or she were always home. My time of wintering is ending as spring slowly emerges here in still snowy Vermont, and I am discovering that all I was searching for was right before me all the while. Let me explain (and share some wonderful antique finds for my 18th-century homestead!). How has your Lenten journeys been going? What have you discovered?
Baking and Praying With Patrick
It’s St. Patrick’s Day here at Old Stone Well Farm and not only did I discover how easy it is to make homemade Irish soda bread (the real Irish way, without raisins!), I was reminded once again of how Christ is all around us through the kindness of friends like you. So come and join me for a snowy Paddy’s day! P.S. And pull up a chair and hear why Irish bakers would cut a cross on the top of the bread before baking.
The Snow Keeps Falling
Day 2 of snow…and up to three feet. While I do love the white stuff, I have been hankering for blue skies and green grass. And I learned a lesson today: When trying your hand at homesteading, go for what is practical, not what you think looks pastoral. This was my morning. Vermont living at its best.
accidental country pastor 