Wear the Red Shoes
We want you to know if you buy something using the retail links in our posts, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). We will never recommend anything we don’t believe in. Not for all the butter in Sweden. You can read our full policy if you have questions or contact us directly.
Unexpected Insights on a Pilgrimage to Dollywood
What started as a trip from the Cascade Mountains to the Smoky Mountains—and a long-awaited visit to Dollywood—became something more: a small but mighty act of reclaiming joy.
At Wild Homestead Living, we’re not just about growing food or learning skills. We’re about becoming.
Becoming more yourself. Becoming more alive.
Letting the simple, seasonal pleasures of life remake you—gently and wildly.
This photo carousel tells a little piece of that story. Red shoes and all.
This outfit wasn’t just cute. It was a celebration of being alive.
Red tennis shoes, just like I wore as a kid. DollyParton’s new jeans and gingham shirt. Even a little makeup. I felt radiant.
Going to Dollywood marked something big. I’ve survived breast cancer - twice. In the fall, I had a hysterectomy that helped us save enough money to finally take this trip.
I’ve had my body cut open and stitched back together s many times. I’ve worked hard tone strong, to be healthy, to feel whole. And this outift? It was a YES to all of it.
Park workers said Dolly wore the same outfit days before - and I looked like I should work there. It felt like a wink from the universe.
But not everyone was kind. There were stares. Sideways glances. Especially from other women.
For a moment, I wondered…Was I too much?
But here’s the truth: I wasn’t dressing for approval. I was dressing for joy. For the girl who loved red she’s. For the woman who fought to still be here.
Dolly has always taught us to be ourselves. Sparkly, soft, strong, and unapologetic.And that’s what I did.
If you’ve ever felt like your joy made someone uncomfortable, please know: You weren’t too much. You were brave. You were a mirror. You were shining.
So wear the red shoes. Dress for the life you’ve fought for. Celebrate yourself. That’s the Dolly way. And it’s the Wild Homestead Living way too.
You’re not too much. You’re a miracle.
Finding Your Red Shoes
And if you’re thinking,
“That’s great for you, but I don’t even know where to begin…”
then let’s talk.
Sometimes we just need someone to listen—to help us sort through the noise and find our way back to what matters.
That’s what my Wayfinding Sessions are for.
They’re a safe, thoughtful spaces for exploring your next steps—whether you're feeling lost, stuck, or just ready for more.
