As women around the world became aware of MaryJane Butters, they wanted to know more about this romantic and feminine farmer: They desired this type of lifestyle for themselves, or at least sought out enough details to enable them to emulate the philosophy behind MaryJane’s simple way of living. The overwhelming demand led to the creation of a Web site, and a devoted online community soon followed. The Farmgirls Sisterhood—women who actually live on a farm, or those who just dream about it—connects with local chapters to swap stories and skills. These are women who enjoy all the comforts of modern conveniences, yet long for the basics of sewing, cooking, and camping. “It’s Anne of Green Gables meets Laura Wilder meets Barbara Kingsolver,” MaryJane explains.
Her multitude of fans, as well as those simply looking for a little peace and lots of quiet, seek reservations at MaryJanesFarm Bed & Breakfast, where camping merges with glamour and is elevated to “glamping,” as MaryJane describes it. Guests come from far and wide to delight in her original mix of antiques and the great outdoors, with beautiful old-fashioned iron beds adorned with vintage-inspired organic bedding placed atop wooden platforms within screen-sided tents that contain no electricity.
A grandmother, mother, and mentor to many, MaryJane has a message to offer her many admirers, but she still craves time alone in the woods in order to keep her creativity flowing and her business humming. With an easy elegance, each day she tackles seemingly endless responsibilities. Yet, MaryJane exudes the basic essence of the simple life for which so many people yearn. “I keep wearing all my titles and swapping all my hats,” she says. “But I do remind myself that I know how to go back to living in a one-room cabin, if need be.”
We originally published MaryJane’s story in our July/August 2009 issue. What unique ideas inspire you?
I like your articles and pictures very much ,so , I would like to receive your free mails.
Best regards
Barbara
A Very Sweet Dream come true!
Mary Jane embodies the very essence of my soul…a true southern girl, once removed from the country life of visiting grandparents , only to return to the daunting life on concrete…. to dream once more of the fireflies that light up the night sky, owls that have no thoughts of keeping quiet and breezes so thick with southern drawl, that the dewy mist of the nights humidity upon ones skin, is merely heaven on earth!
Beautifully said!
My introduction to the MaryJane Farmgirl world came from my neighbor. Every time I sat down with a book or magazine of MaryJane Butter, I feel a sense of peace and simple beauty. Thankful for refreshing and empowering messages that she promotes.