Looking back on Wilder Day, 2011

We had cool temperatures and liquid sunshine on Wilder Day, 2011!  But most all that was planned came off.  We all had a good time as we remembered Laura!

Here, at Laura's "Sweet Memories" the programs presented by Colleen Ferries, "All About Laura", were well received.  Two sizable crowds watched and participated in both sessions, as she demonstrated pioneer life through her "Hands-on" demos.  Everyone got a real "Kick" out of making butter from fresh cream.   And some made flour by grinding wheat in a coffee mill, just like the Ingalls family did!

I had to mind the store and didn't get to see all the demonstrations, but I heard from those who participated, that it was a very inspirational and educational experience.  Pioneer life, as described by Laura in her books, actually "Came Alive" on my front porch!  In this modern age we often forget just how difficult everyday life was for our ancestors in America.  They forged a new nation for us to improve upon - some may say that we did too much improving!  Some believe that a simpler lifestyle today would be an improvement!  But anyone who was here on that Saturday went away feeling closer to Laura and the hardships faced by all American pioneers.  They will never again take it for granted when they go to the super market in a car and buy a loaf of bread or a pound of butter.  Nor will they think they have it quite so bad anymore!

There are many lessons to be learned by reading Laura's books.  I'm glad I have her books available in my shop at a discount.  And I'm glad I can share Laura with all who come by my shop.  Many who came out to the presentations came in to see my shop and make some purchases.  Many who were here last year commented on how many new items they found in my shop this year.  I'm always trying to expand and improve on things; either new candies or new displays of old-timey things.  It was a year that drew many people, from near and far.   I've had people come in this year from: Japan, Switzerland, Canada, and over 2 dozen states in the U.S.A. - from coast to coast, north and south, and almost everywhere in between!

I'm now in "Off Season", with tourist season ending and winter coming on; which, beginning in November, will find my shop closed all winter.  I'll be working on some new projects for opening in the spring.  But I won't stop posting blogs here!  There is always something new to write about from Laura's hometown!  So, be sure to check back often!

I hope you'll take a minute and sign up as a follower of my blog, if you haven't already.  And, should you feel the urge, leave a nice comment also.  And don't forget to tell others about my blog, so they can join in on the fun as well!  Thanks. The Old Man in the Bib Overalls