Forget the days of perfectly white shiplap walls. They sailed years ago when dusting became less of a priority compared to caring for the family, land, and stock. As farmers, we aren’t home much; maybe to sleep, catch up on the news, or change clothes, so a change in the weather may not justify you decorating for fall, but what you [accidentally] drag in the house may say otherwise.

The term “farmhouse” is being used in a more broader term than ever. Known for its white siding, wrap-around porch and simplicity, it seems as though we have all been sitting on a retail goldmine in the interior/exterior decorating world.

We weren’t aware that dirty boots piled up with oil-stained Wranglers, and smelly shirts were a sign of a well-put-together home. We weren’t aware that recently born animals brought in from the cold laying by the fireplace still covered in less-than-pleasant afterbirth were the style. We weren’t aware that hay and grain strew out among the house gave us charm. All we know is our way of life.