My journey from a Country Girl to a Southern Belle: A Wonderful Memorial Day... in the hay field!

What a wonderful Memorial Day we shared here at the Binford house. During breakfast we talked about why we celebrate Memorial Day and what it means. I am continually amazed at the knowledge my children retain! We talked about freedom and the price our soldiers pay to make sure America remains free! Pickles is always full of questions, and wanted to know if we have any family members in the military. So, we learned that my Dad, and both Grandpa's were in the military, as well as Daddy's Dad and Grandfather. Even though we are a day late, thank you to all who serve and protect our freedom.

I would also like to say thank you to all the loved ones who are left behind while their soldier is away. I can't imagine what it must be like to keep everything going at home and the worry and uncertainty they face during this time. Thank you too!

When you are involved in agriculture, Mother Nature determines your schedule. Yesterday, we had to help Scott in the hay field. I took a break from watching him bale hay at a neighbor's place, and went back to our farm to "re-plant" our corn. Not too sure what Scott did when he planted it the first time, but if it is not too late, we should have corn the second time! I don't know what I was thinking, but it sure was hot out there after lunch. You know it is hot when Pickles has given up on riding her 4-wheeler and instead submerges her head in the water trough. I wish I had my camera, because the look on her face was priceless when she was carelessly dipping her head and she flipped her hair with all the water in it, and realized there was a cow right behind her! Not just any cow, but one of the super friendly longhorn cows. I knew she wouldn't hurt her, but it was a sight to see.

Trying to keep two children entertained while you are sitting waiting on Daddy can be a challenge, but even more so when they are hot, tired and their clothes are wet. We waited, and waited and waited some more. I finally resorted to my Mom's old tactics, and we started looking at all things in nature. Finally, Pickles was interested, and the questions began like rapid-fire! Anyway, we found a beautiful flower, all alone by it's self on the side of the road. My Mom called this Queen Ann's Lace, and I don't know why it was called that, but I will do some research and let you and my 7 year-old in on the mystery!

Pickles and her lonely flower. We had to bring it home with us...

Last night, I tried something I have never tried before. In the spirit of grilling and Memorial day, I grilled a turkey! We are trying to watch our weight, and I thought turkey would be the perfect leftover for salads this week. I must say it was super delicious! Next time I will brine the turkey before I grill it, but it was still good just straight out of the package. I simply seasoned the outside with olive oil and salt and pepper. Placed it over a drip pan on indirect heat, and put the lid on. The package said to cook it 11-15 minutes per pound. My fire was too hot, and ours was a little overdone, but still a great taste and a learning experience. I think I will go to the grocery store and pick up another one, and try again!