Author: Arla

I had a whole day at home today, which is the first time in a while. I don't remember all the reasons, it doesn't matter. But it's been good. Amy's pink geranium is finally blooming. Since I have space and south windows I'm wintering her three geraniums in the great room. The great room in… Continue reading At Home In November

It's day five for our people suffering in Haiti. Another day of anxiety and frustration and  raw fear. If we hadn't had reason to understand unceasing prayer before now, here's a great place to start. I found hope while reading about that last evening that Jesus and His disciples spent together. They'd just finished up… Continue reading “I Will Go Before You…”

Have you ever been told by a well-meaning sister or friend that you've become jaded? I was rather startled by it, though. Because in the disappointments of the past year especially; I, for sure, didn't want to become that hard, unhappy person that everyone hoped would stop whining and buck up. Have no drama, be… Continue reading A Cure For Jadedness

I baked cookies in the cookstove today. This is my first baking in this little Monarch and I'm quite pleased. I had no trouble with it over-browning the tops of the cookies as does the old drafty cookstove at the cabin. Besides, cookstove baked cookies are extra special. I really don't know what causes that.… Continue reading Fall Pursuits

There was thick fog all day in Duluth that by evening had become a swirling mist, the street lights could only make halos through. The wipers helped some while I cautiously navigated down the hill towards the Bridge through road construction. I always pray when I'm driving down the hill that I don't miss my… Continue reading Fog

About My Marriage Ben and Abbie Hershey, who were married young and lived long. 39 years is not an accident, it's an accomplishment.Be thankful for his faithful integrity. Don't be for changing him, appreciate his same-ness and commitment.Be proud of us.Really know which side your bread is buttered on.His hermit tendencies don't hurt you, they… Continue reading Talking To Myself

About Me Know what's real in your head. Teach that to your heart. Keep the big picture in the right light ... Eternity.Know Who is in control.Be kind to everyone. And to yourself.Be okay with mistakes. Most of them are of little consequence. Worrying won't solve the real ones. Slow down.Solve the guilt stuff with… Continue reading Talking To Myself

Baskets are integral to my homemaking. I gather from the gardens with them. And I use them for serving. Charcuterie is not only about big boards; baskets do nicely, as well. When I walk in the woods, I will often take a basket and a pair scissors. Maybe I'll have a mantel to decorate or… Continue reading Baskets For Homemaking

This is to show you that beautiful fall ambience can be had for pennies. Thrifting is a wonderful thing. I'll admit I've been shamelessly  grabbing every nice taper holder I see. I did share with Francis last weekend because I'm a good mom like that. Besides she's the one that showed me how to do… Continue reading Fall Decor

Zinnias and straw flowers in copper.Tiny morning fires in the cook stove.Snap dragons in the sugar bowl.Tomatoes, carrots, green beans, cucumbers, squash, peppers, pumpkins, and flowers all in one gathering.Twenty pints of grape concentrate from our own vine.