By Alena Mentink

With a beautiful, warm break from the icy winter weather, we enjoyed spending extra time outside.The warm spell lasted for almost two weeks, and everyone made the most of this time. The boys pulled out their fishing poles and headed down to the dam to try to catch some fish. Although they were unable to catch any fish, they were able to find some water bugs to take home, and they did see a few small fish. Kailey has spent time working with her two horses. On most nice afternoons she can be seen carrying a rope and brushes across the paddocks. Mom, Kailey, Annika, Asher, and I have also taken several walks down to the dam. Although the migrating geese generally leave as soon as they spot us, we can generally watch them from a distance. Continue reading “Early Signs of Spring” →

When we ditched MSG laden products I was desperate for a ranch dressing. After many months and countless failed attempts I found a ranch seasoning mix that I love even more than the store ranch I used to adore! What makes this recipe great is the organic spices I buy from Azure Standard. There is a remarkable difference in the flavor and I don’t patronize the commercial, irradiated spice market. Continue reading “Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix” →

By Kailey Mentink,

What beautiful weather for the beginning of February! The weather is surprisingly warm and the geese have begun to fly. The unexpected weather gave us opportunity to clean up around the farm. At the end of January, we had a pig go into the locker at Brainard. After it was processed, we enjoyed sausage patties for supper. We were astounded at the marvelous flavor of the pork! The lard was a wonderful treat as well. Mom fried some homemade potato chips with dry ranch seasoning mix. The ranch seasoning gives the chips so much flavor! Continue reading “A Taste of Spring” →

As the winter days slide past us here on the farm, our days have settled into a routine. We have been taking advantage of the colder weather by working hard on school and doing extra when we can. It is a lot easier to work on school in the house, and everyone has enjoyed being able to spread out. In the afternoon, we spend time outside after reading. Continue reading “Winter Days on the Farm” →

Benefits of Our Handmade Soap

*Unlike most soaps at the store, our soap still contains the glycerin (a natural skin softener), so it’s very moisturizing!!

*We avoid preservatives, colorants (even minerals), synthetic dyes, and fragrances in our soap.

*We keep the ingredients simple to ensure a great quality product at a great price

*This is the same soap I make for our family and I have very high standards.

*People often comment “I feel really clean after using your soap.” Continue reading “All About Soap” →

By Alena Mentink

12-26-16 to 1-1-16

Outside, the  temperature has steadily been dropping for the past week. The wind has a sharp sting to it, and despite layers of bundles, it is difficult to keep the cold at bay. But looking outside from our cozy, new house, the cold is kept outside, and we can look at the beautiful view without taking so much as a step outside our door. Continue reading “A Fresh Beginning to a New Year” →

By Angie Mentink

We all enjoyed the mild weather this last week. It allowed us to work on some outside projects and made the outside chores more enjoyable. Our week started as usual. Our daily routine includes Continue reading “Christmas Week” →

After working last Saturday and many late evenings during the week, we were able to finish the living room floor, hallway, and the new sheeting that goes under the vinyl. The flooring crew arrived on Wednesday morning and surprised us when they said they were done on Thursday. We all loved the way the floor turned out! Continue reading “Moving Day!!” →

The brisk Nebraska temperatures this week are making it feel more like winter than fall. Other than some outside chores we have been able to work on painting in our cozy new house this week. When I glance out our big picture window I’m thankful for the warmth from the furnace and the blessing of inside work. Continue reading “Approaching Moving Day” →