The Farm Chicks

Under the guise of going grocery shopping and buying seed packets for our gardens, Karleen and I went to the supermarket. It was a neighborly thing to do.


But tucked in our cart was a book recently purchased. It was the "Farm Chicks in the Kitchen" cookbook! Along with all the regular supermarket advertising in the newspaper and fliers was word that the "Farm Chicks" were coming to town and would be having a book signing event.


As a reader who enjoys "Country Living" magazine (a place they have been featured many times) and as a friend of Paula from Elm Street (she loves the "Farm Chicks"), it seemed that meeting the "Farm Chicks" would be something that would spice up the day, the week, the month, the year!


And it did! Karleen and I were there early and the lines were short. Teri and Serena were friendly, cheerful, and informative. It was fun to chat and learn from them. They are true country gals --- with a genuine down-home friendliness.


Their books were displayed nearby, ready for eager buyers. The pages within are filled with great country recipes and wonderful kitchen and craft ideas. The book begins with the life story of both Teri and Serena; human-interest blurbs about their growing up years which set the stage for their "Farm Chickness" in later years.


I especially enjoy the story of how they met. One time Teri was preparing dinner when Sister Kathleen called about a new woman to their church. She needed a sponsor. Would Teri be willing to mentor her? She was, and the rest is history. A beautiful friendship developed between Teri and Serena --- and a multitude of creative ventures and ideas resulted from that simple phone call.


Soon they were not only cooking and preserving together, but going off on junking adventures in search of antiques and memorabilia to satisfy their home decorating urge. Eventually they had 'too much stuff' and had their first yard sale in a neighbor's yard. From there the fun continued and continues still with "The Farm Chicks Antique Show" that is held each year.


My cookbook is now duly autographed by both Serena and Teri. I'm enjoying reading the recipes and preparing to try some of them in my own kitchen. Intermingled with recipes and kitchen tips are great stories of their lives and the lives of those they meet as they venture to new places in search for antiques and more. Sprinkled throughout the pages I've also found terrific ideas that will satisfy any one's creative urge! Instructions for vintage aprons made from old sheets, and a scone cozy that is perfect for afternoon tea, ideas for shelf trims, and directions to make food covers --- and much, much more --- are treasures tucked here and there between sections of recipes and lore.


Their book is on my 'most highly recommended' list --- and they are on my 'even higher recommended' list as ladies of farm charm, well deserving of the name "Farm Chicks".

You may visit Teri's and Serena's website and blog easily by clicking on my "Friends of Gracious Hospitality" blog roll. They have been on my blog roll for awhile --- thanks to Paula from Elm Street and her enthusiastic recommendation of their creative expertise.

To Teri and Serena, it was great to meet you! Happy trails to you as you continue teaching others to live well, laugh often, and cook much!

Photos copyright@LaTeaDah2009