Romney Ridge Farm Journal

Moving Right Along

2011-01-14T06:27:00.000-05:00

On to bigger and better ....you can now follow our blog posts here. Thanks!

Knit, Design, Write, Repeat

2010-12-19T06:14:00.005-05:00

Occasionally I give in to the little voices in my head that tell me I have bitten of more than I can chew .... but not very often. Though they do get my attention, I utilize them in a different way and rather than letting them tell me "I can't", I allow them to challenge me in to how, "I can".
knitting has not been one of my strong points until recently. I know, I know, that sounds really strange, sort of like the fisherman that doesn't know how to swim, but my lack of skill has come from lack of time. Sure, I can knit, just not fast, and not in intricate patterns. But that's about to change.

While vending at The Fiber Festival on New England this past November, I was truly inspired by all of the creativity around me. I had just finished dyeing my new Kaleidoscope yarns and really needed to knit a swatch to show how the colors knit up on the needles. I knit and purled, the woolen spun yarn flowed smooth and wonderfully over the bamboo needles. The colors produced in each row left me excited to see how the next combination would turn out. I added ribbing, and then some seed stitch. WOW! I needed more! The swatch measured about 8 inches long, and I bound off and reached for longer needles. With no pattern, I sat in my hotel room and cast on, guessing the number of stitches, measuring my girth with the length of the needles.

As I continue to knit I am designing as I go. The process seems simplier to me as I keep assuring myself that I can. Writing the pattern down may be a bit of a challenge, but I have experienced friends to call on for assistance. You can follow the progress of this sweater on my facebook page.

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2010-12-11T06:20:00.005-05:00

It is time to build up my biceps again. The outside water spicket is once again challenged by the cold air. It is fussy, working only when the sun touches it with it's barely warm winter-time rays. My morning chores are now the basics. Everybody up? All is well? Here is breakfast, see you around 2:00.
During the summer months, I try to accomplish as many tasks as possible before the heat of the day sets in. But when the seasons change, and in the dead of winter, I wait for the "warm" part of the day when the sun comes over the tall pines and warms the barn in the afternoon. That is of course until lambs are born. Then I have no choice but to wrap myself in many layers underneath my stiff, insulated overalls and venture out at all times of the day or night. But that's okay ...it is worth it.

The sheep don't realize how much they are used during the winter months. Our colorful chickens
keep close on cold days, using them as wind blocks and the occasional foot warmers. It is not uncommon to find a hen or two nestled into the warm, thick locks of a pregnant ewe, especially on a very cold night. Seems the rafters of the barn are not the best place to spend the night when the temperatures dip below freezing. Mother Nature does provide for our creatures and if you think about it we humans are quite fortunate to have them and to benefit from their warm, woolly harvest.

Our new bunny Willow came inside for a haircut yesterday and then moved into the basement with our two other bunnies for the winter months while her beautiful fiber grows back. The bunnies move around quite a bit during the year. Inside from the winter cold, back outside in the springtime, up to the big cool barn during the summer heat, and back outside during comfortable autumn weather. Their cages are large but mobile, and I think they enjoy being outside rather than in. Time for some BIG projects! After a season of traveling to shows, taking small, simple, "mindless" projects, I am ready for a challenge. This sweater ( which looks so much better in person ) has been a fun project. I am designing it as I go and having a grand time. I am using two different dye lots of my Kaleidoscope Yarn as well as Charcoal, Turkey Red, and now Licorice and White. I hope to have it done to wear to the Ag Show in January.

So snuggle in my friends, and enjoy the season!

Giving Is Good!

2010-11-23T09:01:00.005-05:00

Time for some Holiday Cheer!! Beginning Dec 13th, Romney Ridge Farm Yarn Co. will be giving away a some fabulous fibery goodness every day until Christmas! Then on Christmas Day we will choose one lucky winner of our

Romney Ridge Farm Sampler Package containing:

4 skeins of our unique yarns.

A "bump" of our Angora/Wool roving.

4 handmade stoneware buttons from Sunshine Pottery -Topsham, Maine.

A handmade Mitten Pin from Sunshine Pottery -Topsham, Maine.

A handmade sheep pendant featuring our sheep - Littleput Land - Portland, Maine.

A Hooking Kit -Snowman Ornament.

Our 2011 Romney Ridge Farm Calendar.

ALL MADE IN MAINE PRODUCTS!!

Orders placed from Nov 1st until Dec 23rd will qualify you to win one of the 12 give aways and put you in the running for the Farm Sampler.

Good Luck!

2010-11-16T18:18:00.022-05:00

So there I sat completely out of my element, strapped into the seat, looking out of the tiny round window at the bustling ramp agents. Fear and total loss of control had me in it's grip. Why? I hate small spaces and I always have to drive. I am a control freak after all, and I was totally without any. I felt very small and when the plane touched down and we made our way to the ship, I felt even smaller.

I have learned a lot about myself these past few days. Excited to see a new world, and experience new things, I left the safety zone that I have created for myself over the past 13 years. I am confessing now, that I am phasing into the next step in my life. Not changing who I am, but beginning to allow myself to say "yes I can" a little more than I used to. And I am more inspired each time I step out into the world ....wow, life is good.

Good friends always make life just a little sweeter. Especially those who understand that I march to the beat of a different drum. I love old engines, gardening, art, farming, cowboy boots, architecture, big hair rock bands, painting and fast boats. I can't make it much past 9 p.m. and I need to see the sunrise. I am what I am and I have good friends who are okay with that.

Cozumel took me a little off guard. It wasn't anything that I expected it to be, though time limits kept me from seeing more of the island than I would have like to. The colors were spectacular, the people were friendly and smiling with their big toothy grins and beautiful skin. The water was a different blue than the waters of Maine, and the trees were fascinating.

My husband and I, and good friends Dom and Pam took a little off road excursion into the jungle. After several miles of rugged roads, rocks, flying mud and cow poo, we stopped at a deep underground cave where stalagmites and and resident bats were the main attraction.

The boys swam in the bat poop soup, while Pam and I pondered the reasons why roly-poly women choose to wear bikinis.:) Our wonderful tour guides, R-R-R-R-R-Roberto and Danny Boy, explained how the high calcium content in the water affected the "structure" of the Mayan people. They were short, strong people with little dental issues or osteoporosis.
After a quick shower and clean up on the ship, we headed into the Marketplace for some shopping, then on to Margaritville for some fun and the best guacamole I have ever had!

All in all it was a good trip. I really missed my family and my simple life. Too much hustle and bustle for me, too much rushing, and not enough to do on the ship. I knew sitting and relaxing would be a huge challenge for me. Next vacation I hope to be riding and roping on the range. Time to start saving.:)

The Perfect Pot O' Color

2010-10-27T14:26:00.004-05:00

If you "follow me" on facebook, you have probably seen these skeins already. They are a random act of color craziness that I had to get out of my system. What you do not see is the frenzy of designing, the how to do it this way, and step three and four shouldn't take too long as to leave enough pigment for step five, and I really should be doing something else today psycho -nutjob that I become when I think about new techniques and designs. I am after all, a super huge control freak ... I have accepted that.

Only one dyelot turned out as I planed. But there are no mistakes, only a lesson learned and a new note to take. In my eyes, the perfect pot of color would be very boring. I don't believe in perfection, or normal for that matter. A normal day? No such thing. And if it did exist, it would not have been filled with any sort of surprises that make me say "holy cow, how did that happen?" I am as excited by my experiments in dyeing as I am in the day to day colors that need to be replenished.

In the middle of my dyepot frenzy,

a mama hen arrived as proud as a peacock with her brood of 10 peeping chicks. You can imagine my surprise, then panic to find them all, then my surprise to find a second hen in the process of hatching out the rest of the clutch, sitting protectively over the last of the eggs, two of which had tiny beaks protruding through the escape holes that they were making.

Normal day? Nope, but I'm not complaining.

A Fashion Show Featuring Joe!

2010-10-22T05:08:00.006-05:00

Two years ago the realization that Joe was getting old hit me. I consider him the beginning of my shepherding adventure. I have learned so much from him over the years. So in early spring, when we sheared, I kept his fleece separate from the rest of the shearing and had my friend Nancy of Newaim Fiber Mill turn him into "just Joe" yarn. Over 3,000 yards of silvery- grey, worsted weight yarn was returned to me on cones. Then a friend, with incredible knitting skills, was hired to knit me a sweater of just Joe. I chose a pattern that I felt would serve the yarn well. Joe is a Romney -a long wool breed of sheep. Longwool is a bit heavier than down wools. Projects knit with longwools have a beautiful drape. So I chose the pattern for The Ursa Sweater and modified it a bit.

My Joe Sweater is a treasure to me. I pack it safely away when warm weather comes to Maine, but look forward to wrapping myself in it's warmth when the air turns crisp and cool.

In a few weeks I will be attending the Fiber Festival of New England in Springfield, MA. At 3 p.m. on Saturday there will be a fashion show. What fun! I am entering my Joe Sweater in the event as well as two other projects made from my yarns. This is the first year of what I hope will be a successful event. Check out the website for the dates and times, as well as the many wonderful vendors attending this event.

Autumn SALE!!

2010-10-16T09:12:00.000-05:00

The Right Stuff

2010-10-01T05:45:00.017-05:00

"May I ask what will you be making with your yarn?" I ask my customers that question frequently. Yes I am being nosey, but more than that I am interested in making sure they are happy with their purchase, and if they are new to knitting, I want to help them to choose the correct fiber or combination of fibers for their project.

There are so, so, so many things to consider when you purchase your yarn, with end product being the #1 factor. Our super-soft Angora and down wool blend knits into a wonderful hat, scarf, pair of mittens, sweater or vest. Sure it would make warm socks, but being composed of fine down fleeces, and even though it is spun at a worsted weight, they would be extremely thick. Without a stronger longwool type fleece such as Romney or the even stronger Mohair fiber in the blend, I would be concerned that it heels would wear out. So softness does not always lend itself to durability in a garment that would see the type of constant use as socks.
Our Romney Mohair blend would make very durable socks. It is spun from adult and lamb fleeces and adult and kid mohair. Our Romney fleeces range from medium to fine grade as does our mohair. It has been spun into a light, almost DK weight, so - less bulk, and soft and durable. For some people though it might feel itchy. So a sweater or vest, more of an outwear garment might be a better choice depending on their skin's sensitivity. The heavier long wool and mohair give better drape to a knit fabric than the springy down wool. This brings us to what I consider the #2 factor. Your sensitivity to fibers.

I get a little tickle from folks who say that wool is itchy. Well it is wool after all and it's structure, with it's tiny overlapping scales, can feel itchy to some folks. But it those little scales that can cause irritation to some, are important to the structure of the fiber. Wool is the only fiber with the natural structure of overlapping scales which allows the fibers to cling together and create felt. No synthetic equal has ever been created.

Wool is flame resistant, warms and cools you, can keep you dry, and is just plain wonderful. If you are super sensitive to wool but love to knit and have woollen pieces in your wardrobe, then knitting outwear is a good choice. I suggest to my customers when they aren't sure of their own sensitivity to rub the yarn under their chin on their neck - a very sensitive part of your body. I also suggest that you sew a small strip of flannel around the neckline of a sweater or vest, or headband of a hat creating a soft barrier for your skin.

The third factor that I consider very important to a finished piece is drape. The weight and content of the yarn determines this as well as the way the fiber is spun. Woollen spun yarns are "poofy" and "fulled". A mohair blend will lay much differently that a 100% wool yarn that has been spun from down fleeces. The weight of the mohair makes for more of a flowing garment, where the down wools knit into a lighter weight end product. Longwool fleeces tend to have better drape as well, but can be a bit less soft than the down wools.

So if you visit our farm and I seem a bit nosey, it is only because I want you to leave satisfied with your yarn purchase. Your satisfaction with your finished project it as important to me as your experience here. Leaving excited about the piece you are about to create means I have done my job well. And please remember to send me a picture of what you make with our yarns to showcase on our website!:)

Common Ground Madness!!!

2010-09-27T09:00:00.009-05:00

Wow. Let me say that again. WOW! What a weekend! As a first time vendor at the Common Ground Fair let me just say ..it was all I could hope for and more. The GREATEST folks on the planet run the Fiber Marketplace and I sincerely mean that!

Like any show or even season for that matter, I find it very interesting what colors and weights of yarn are the most popular. Red and Turquoise shades were in high demand at my booth but the Double Dips in worsted and especially the bulky were my #1 sellers.

Sooooooooooooo .......... I have decided to add the Double Dips to my Fall Line of yarns ( in fact I have several dyelots in the dye pots as a write this) ! The dye process puts a dark and light hue of the chosen color in to the yarn. I will knit up a swatch asap so you can see the result knit.

A weekend filled with wonderful people, good wholesome food, and inspiration. What more could you ask for. Thank you to all of my friends, family and fabulous customers - old and new for a very successful weekend. Next up ...Sunday River!

Recycling Water PART II

2010-09-15T11:15:00.004-05:00

Once the yarn has been rinsed free from the spinning oil, I prepare my dye. The yarn is then weighed and my personal dyeing process begins.

After soaking up the color for the amount of time you desire, preferably until the dye is fully absorbed and the water runs clear, test the water in a jar and on a dry paper towel. The water will be murky and will appear to still contain color pigments. It probably does, but not enough to affect the next color to go into the water.

The paper towel will be a good indicator of the pigment left in the water. This water, from Peacock Blue dye, is almost clear, but does not appear to be in the jar. The fibers of the paper towel do not absorb much color, and when rinsed holds no color at all. Now, I pull up a skein out of the water and watch that the water runs clear from the skein. Most of the pigment will have been absorbed my the fibers at this point. So I feel safe to pull all of the yarn out of the dye pot. BE CAREFUL! The water and the yarn is still HOT. I use salad tongs and sometimes wear gloves. Place the yarn in a drainer.

The water in the pot will be lowered, BUT you do not have to dump all of that water down the drain. It is still quite warm and ready to be reheated. Fill up your pot to the "fill line" that you usually use, and add whatever mordant ( if you use one) you might need. ( This picture is deceiving, as I only add about an inch to the fill line). Put the pot back on the stove, cover, and reheat the water. It should take very little time to be hot enough to add your new color.

Now, this is where you need to think out your next move. We all are familiar with the color wheel and what colors we can combine to make other colors.

In this pot I used Peacock Blue, a bright, "turquoisey" blue with green and gold tones. Because there is a slight bit of pigment in the pot. My safest choices of color to add next are in that family of colors. So a blue or green will work perfectly. If I were dyeing yellow, I might next change to shades of golds and oranges. Reds pretty much need to stay in the red family, as do purples.

This whole process is trial and error. Again, my methods will never be the same as yours. I usually try and run through 4 dyelots before I change the water. I figure that I save around 20 gallons of water per 4 dyelots using this method. So .... less water = less fuel to heat it. Rinsing the yarns in cold water saves fuel as well. Be sure and put covers on your pots when heating your water each time. The wide, open pots loose as much as 50% of the heat out of the top.

NEXT : SOLAR DRYING

Recycling Water, Solar Drying & Minimal Packaging PART I

2010-09-15T05:03:00.007-05:00

For a few years now I have been thinking about my dyeing methods and how to improve on them. It isn't that I wish to change the colors or even improve on the quality of my work. I am satisfied and confident that I am producing a high quality product, but the amount of fuel I have always thought I needed to heat my water and work with the fiber is not necessary.

Now, that being said, this may not work for everyone. My methods of dyeing are not conventional. I do not "follow the directions on the package" so to speak, but instead I have developed my own methods that accomplish what works for my types of yarns, the amount I dye, my water quality, and my time schedule. In fact there are so many variables that apply to this method, that it may not work for anyone else, but I promised I would post it in hopes it will be helpful to my fellow dyers.

First things first. If your yarn has been spun at a spinning mill. Most likely before the fibers were carded, they were sprayed with a light spinning oil. So before you dye your yarn, you need to remove the oil. For years I used very warm water to dissolve the oil, but I now have found that a diluted basin of cold water in the washing machine works just as well. So ....fill up the basin, add the soap, swish, then add the yarns. Let the yarn soak for 15 minutes, then spin out the load.

more in a bit!:)

Dyeing, Dyeing and More Dyeing

2010-08-24T05:28:00.009-05:00

I am back in the dye pots today after a weekend of shuffling sheep and cleaning the barn for winter. Angus, our Romney ram who should have been a Romney wether ( long story ) has finally found a great gig on Roque Island. He leaves in October, so I decided to use him with at least two of my ewes maybe three as he has such a classic Romney build and a beautiful fleece, both traits I would like to pass on to my flock.

Before the humidity kicked in last week the heat was perfect for quickly drying freshly dyed yarns, so I took advantage of the suns rays and worked on my supply of yarns for The Common Ground Fair. Over 240 skeins engulfed every inch of my deck, all four drying racks, deck chairs and railings. With kids and hubby off to a weekend fishing derby, I was a free to sprawl my work all over the house!

I am excited to be accepted as a vendor to this year's Common Ground Fair, just not sure what to expect. How much do I bring? Do I need help? Do I camp out or drive home every night? I guess, like everything I do, I'll fly by the seat of my pants and everything will workout. :)With several shows ahead, I will be in the dye pots all this week. I love dyeing with leaves falling all around. The small amount of knitting I have managed to finish is only a drop in the bucket. I have so many plans for the cozy, beautiful, bulky yarns. In fact I am going to try my hand at a design that has floating around in my head for a few weeks. Stay tuned!

Au Natural

2010-08-13T05:50:00.008-05:00

Over the past few weeks runs of natural colored yarns have been arriving back from the spinneries. First the Babydoll Bunny Blend, then a portion of our Romney/Mohair ( which has almost sold out ...but more is coming!) Then on Tuesday I picked up the Bulky yarn I have been waiting for so long to have spun.

The Babydoll/Bunny Blend is a beautiful, soft, heathered grey. Our wool is down,the bunny is silky soft. It is a lofty yarn, wonderful for overdyeing , but beautiful as its natural color as well.

The Romney/Mohair is also our farm blend, created from our Romney sheep's fleeces and our Angora goat's Mohair. The addition of mohair to the wool

is just enough as to not make the yarn "over-fuzzy" as mohair can do, but to provide a soft sheen which also over-dyes beautifully! Then came the Bulky yarn. I had been holding off spinning the bulky until the crisp fall air arrived. I think my timing is right -at least here in Maine. This yarn is a real treat to knit with. Using sz 15 needles, I knit up this cowl from one skein in about an hour.

There is a large amount of

Southdown in the yarn so it is super soft. I may actually start and finish a sweater using the Bulky since it knits up so fast! :)

2010-08-07T04:42:00.002-05:00

I am up. It is early and the sun is just peeking over the ridge. The sheep are divided. Some lay quietly munching, chewing, burping up their cud, others are wandering, searching, investigating. I am up. Thinking about the months ahead, excited about the traveling, guilty for leaving kids and farm behind. Knowing it will all be okay, worth it, fun.

I haven't left this farm much in years. A young family, responsibility, building a business, busy, busy life has kept me close to home and though I know my life is about to shift again, I fully embrace it. Doors are closing, but many more are opening, some just waiting for me to be brave enough, strong enough, excited enough to reach out and turn their knobs.

When your mind is full of thoughts, and ideas, not just the ones that get you through the day, but the ideas that come from inspiring objects, places and events, and when you are a person who finally allows yourself to let them consume you, a smile starts in the center of your face. It spreads like vines to not only turn up the corners of your mouth, but to pull your whole face upward. It pulls your spirit upward. And if that smile won't go away, when you are standing in a place of beauty, taking it all in, blocking out the noise and world around you, centered,

focused, you are me. You know what it is like when

your spirit is fulfilled. A creative mind and spirit needs to be recognised, not put away because life is to

busy and does not have time for it.

It will fight to be heared, felt and used. Free.

A Babydoll Bunny ?

2010-07-31T05:36:00.007-05:00

Ooooooooo ...I can't stop touching it! It is soft, squishy, lightweight and cozy. I want to wrap myself up in it and take a long nap on the deck. What is it you ask?? It is the new Babydoll/Bunny yarn created by myself and my by good friend Betty of Spinnakees' Farm. Our combined Babydoll Southdown fleeces and Angora Bunny fiber have been spun together into this yummy goodness. Have you ever touched Babydoll Southdown fiber? It is unusual, springy and super soft ...especially on the animal. Once washed and ready to be spun, it's staple makes it best blended with other fibers. We focused on keeping this yarn blended with similar down type fleece, and added just enough of our Corriedale and Cormo to create a smooth flow. Then came the added silky, dreamy fluff of our German Angora rabbits. Though it is spun as a worsted weight, when washed and fulled, it blooms into the appearance of a light bulky weight yarn.

And did I mention the color???? Light, soft grey with flecks of white ...so soft and cozy. What to make first???? Hats, mittens, a nice throw for fall? A cozy Poncho? The possibilities are endless! Can you tell I am excited? This is a limited run so if you'd like a few skeins click here.

MAINE OPEN FARM DAY July 25th!

2010-07-24T08:22:00.002-05:00

The Crazies

2010-07-12T05:22:00.009-05:00

It is crazy here. I am going to blame it on the heat. Looking back to last summer with the endless rain and wet days, I feel a little guilty complaining. Warm sun and clear sky's have out numbered the soggies. My garden is way ahead of the season, unlike last year as I watched with sadness as my tomatoes "drowned" in the puddles. The new raised beds are saving my back and my time, weeding is a breeze and actually the weeds are much less evasive. Life is good and getting sweeter.

For those of you who make the trek to our farm each year be aware ...this summer you will notice that my yard is a bit more cluttered with woolly beasts, furry friends and feathered foul all running amuck, pooing and eating, sleeping on the front steps, and invading your cars. The chickens have doubled in numbers, Romeo has a new apprentice -Tomday, and then there is Junior, Mister Longlegs himself who truly believes he is still 14 pounds and able to climb on someone's lap.

Have you been here yet? Have you witnessed the chaos of the day when my yarn shop is full of visitors and two goats and one long-legged sheep invite themselves in?Have you been entertained by the countless fluffy Silky hens and their fuzzy chicks, the spotted, the speckled, the cock-a-doodle-doodles???? Have you seen Comet the old grouchy bunny appear from out of nowhere and then disappear just as quickly???? It is crazy here! ...and I love it.

I have been dyeing mostly in the later part of the day sometimes even after supper. The heat from the stove is just too much to bear first thing in the morning. This week I have been focusing on a few upcoming shows. The Harbor Arts Show in Camden is this weekend and the forecast is calling for sunny and hot. The harbor will be a great place to be, overlooking the majestic yachts and smelling the wonderful smells.

It may be crazy ....I may be crazy, but I cannot think of any place I would rather live. Come visit us this summer. And remember Romeo prefers Guinness and Lays Potato Chips!

Freedom

2010-07-02T05:15:00.003-05:00

My little mama hen leads her little brood around the yard seeking out tasty bugs and seeds. She is brave and keeps a sharp eye on every move the chicks make, even scolding the one straggler who is to brave for his own good. When the rain falls, she creates and safe haven for them under her wings. At night she brings them in to a safe corner of the barn and shelters them from the night air. Watching her is therapeutic.

As the lambs grow their mother's too, keep watch over them. They wander far and investigate all. But at the end of the day, they seek out the comfort only their mothers can give. Even Blizzard, the first lamb ever to be born on our farm many years ago, lays quietly with her mother every night just as she has done since she was a baby. Watching them is therapeutic.

To be able to stop everyday and sit on my front steps for a few moments and marvel over nature grounds me. I would not be me if I did not have this life. I would not be happy.

Every hour of every day I know that I am free. I am free to wake up, eat cookies for breakfast, get in my car and drive to the light house, do kart wheels on the edge of the lawn, sing, shout, read any book I wish, listen to any kind of music I like, wear any clothes I desire ...I am free. Free because I was fortunate enough to be born in the greatest country in the world. I will never forget that I owe that freedom to the brave souls who felt so strongly about keeping me free, and to the brave souls who continue to dedicate their lives to freedom, mine and my children's freedom ...I am free. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Happy Birthday America!

Frolicking at the Frolic

2010-06-07T06:41:00.006-05:00

Although my past weekend as a vendor at the Maine Fiber Frolic was filled with frizzy hair, cold hands and wet feet, the rain would not keep me from seeing old friends and making new ones.

Each year, during the Frolic, we all gather and share our lives, that somehow get so far ahead of us, and laugh and cry over the happenings of spring ...lambing, mud season, struggles and gifts, all an importing part of farming and an important part of life.

This year I met the awesome ladies of Starcroft Fiber Mill. Owners of a terrific spinning mill in Monroe Maine, Jani & Leah spin the wool from several of the island sheep flocks here in Maine. One island in particular, Roque Island, located in Downeast Maine, is home to a lovely flock of island sheep as well as my brother Doug and his wife Amy. The Starcroft ladies, while visiting the island, met my brother and also my dad who was visiting for the day. It's a small world and connections in the sheep world can be made, it seems, just about anywhere. I was so happy to meet them, and find that they are right on the same page as me about the farming life and of course ....dogs! Sheep people rock!!!!Hercules and Zeus were a big hit at the Frolic. Hercules, loud and demanding of attention from anyone that would stop and rub his chin, was told over and over again just how cute he was and Zeus was his pleasant quite little self, munching grass and allowing hands to fondle his soft lamb locks.

This week I have been unpacking and restocking my shop. The sheep are anxious to get up on the hill and begin their weed control jobs, and Mom Nature is being kind to us so far with only off and on rain ...unlike last summer which, well, we won't think about. Summer is here ...get out and enjoy it!

2010-05-23T06:41:00.009-05:00

Well, it has been back to "work" this week. Over the past few weeks I have been gathering, sorting, skirting fleeces, and putting together blends of fiber. Last week I picked up 400 lbs of beautiful wool from several local, Maine producers and next week another 1000 lbs will be delivered to our farm for sorting.
Our own Romney fleeces and mohair were delivered a while back to Green Mountain Spinnery and should be arriving soon. Fresh paint, a new window and ceiling are being finished in our yarn shop, and sheep are being shuffled around for the summer months. I guess saying "back to work" sounds a little silly.:) Our new Sweet Maine Feet Yarns have been a big hit. This pair of socks was knit using the color Strawberry Jam. It is a light worsted weight 100% Maine wool yarn, that I have hand-dyed in some funky, eye-popping colors. This past spring, I found a sock pattern in an old cook book that had once belonged to my grandmother. After deciphering, tweaking and rewriting the pattern, a friend knit a test run of the socks and they turned out beautifully. With out even knowing the pattern existed, this yarn was spun. Funny how life works out sometimes.I have put the yarns into a kit with enough yardage for 2 pairs of socks, the pattern, needles and a few yards of nylon which can be knit into the cuffs to help with the elasticity of the socks. This kit will be one of several that I will be bringing to the Maine Fiber Frolic which is fast approaching. These kits are designed with a few folks in mind .... my traveling friends who take the time to stop in each summer. I also put my Shepherdess Scarf into a kit, as well as my Shepherdess mittens and the ever popular Joe Romney Bag. Each kit is R.T.K ...Ready To Knit with all needed needles and notions.

Speaking of the Frolic, This year I will be setting up on the lawn rather than in the barn. My buddy Hercules will be joining me with one of my Romney lambs. This is such a great festival that continues to grow each year but still remains a small and "cozy" event.

And speaking of events ...there is a HUGE Knitting Event taking place this august ...more info soon, I promise.

On a not so nice note. I have finally had to start taking the steps to legally copyright all of my work ..including my logo and tag line. Seems the person who cannot come up with her own ideas is after my tag line now. It is against the law to copy other people's work ....not to mention shameful.

This OPEN HOUSE is for the dogs ..and cats.

2010-05-08T08:44:00.004-05:00

It is time for our Annual Spring OPEN HOUSE! Twice a year we hold these events to showcase freshly dyed yarns for the season, to "show off" our spring lambs or beautiful growing fall fleeces, and to help out our local Animal Shelters by collecting dog & cat food at our farm.

We encourage visitors to bring bags and cans of Pedigree Dog Food and Friskies Cat Food when they visit, we in turn will take $5 OFF any purchase from our Yarn Shop and will deliver donations to the Lincoln County Animal Shelter in Edgecomb.

The Mighty Hercules ( pictured above) encourages you to bring a friend. Our goal this year is to fill the back of our Yukon to overflowing.

Please join us on May 15th & 16th from 11-4.

The Wool Witch

2010-04-30T04:43:00.009-05:00

It is good to be The Wool Witch. Years ago when e-mail was making it's debut, my dad came up with the "woolwitch" as my email address. It suits me perfectly since I live in Woolwich Maine, and I spend my days stirring pots of color and making magic happen to plain white yarns.
My latest "spell" has been cast on a terrific new yarn, just spun my my good friends at Green Mountain Spinnery. This past February, David, the Spinnery owner and my good friend who understands my crazy visions, stopped in and loaded up his car with over 100 lbs of carefully selected fleeces, took them back to the Spinnery in Vermont, and spun them into my favorite Double Twist yarns.

Dave has spun this yarn for me many times before but this time, he lightened the spinning count, and the yarns are much lighter and more of a heavy DK ...or light worsted, whichever you prefer. It screamed "make me into socks!" when I pulled it out of the box ...and I agreed. But I wanted to make this yarn unique, I wanted it to be knit into socks that folks would look at and say "Hey, those are some sweet socks you got there." So out came the dye pots, on went my witch hat and after a little experimenting, a pinch of this and a pinch of that, eye of newt, hair of dog .... well you get the picture, I invented a new way to dye.

I am calling these yarns Sweet Maine Feet Yarns. I hope to see lots of brightly colored socks on many warm, snug feet this fall. They will be just a bit heavier than traditional sock knitters knit, but we Maine folks like to make things rugged and durable. The Down fleeces make this yarn soft and springy and the Longwools make it strong. Of course they would also be great knit up as sweaters, hats, scarves, mittens ....anything you wish to be bright, bold and beautiful!!!

Garden Preparations

2010-04-06T05:20:00.011-05:00

The best part of the day occurs in the early morning. The air only smells as sweet this the sun comes up. Quiet is broken as folks head off to work and the noise of cars begins to hum on Rte 1. When I was growing up on the island, the hum came from the lobster fishermen setting out for the morning to haul their catch. I enjoyed the early morning then, but I did not appreciate it as much as I do now. It is my zen time, my thinking time ....my thankful time.

We spent Easter Sunday redesigning the front garden. For the past several years it has served as a small tomato garden and garlic bed. The garden behind the house was much larger and spacious making it perfect for vining plants. This past fall, I let my sheep in to clean up the left overs and decided to keep them there as the mud all around the paddock was so deep from all of the endless rain. Last week I picked up my raised bed materials from the local lumber yard. Rough cut 2 inch thick, 12 foot long planks weighted down the truck as it was loaded. My son and I worked all morning cutting, nailing together and positioning the beds, as well as turning and amending the soil. It was no small feat moving the heavy planks into the garden, I could not have done it alone. The onions had been planted as well as some mesculn. No peas this year, it is just too late and this garden is not big enough. Instead we will fill this sunny spot with tomatoes and cukes, scallions, herbs and some squash. I am calling it the Gazpacho/Salsa Garden.The chickens helped out after the commotion of pounding hammers and grunting humans digging and tossing dirt around was over. This garden plot is full of worms, but the hens were more interested in the seedling weeds and any little bugs they could find. Once our vegetable seeds are planted though, the beds will be covered with chicken wire so these seedlings can not be scratched up and eaten by the hard working girls. They are the hardest workers I have ever seen, cleaning up the garden and tilling the soil. I'll be working on some new dyeing techniques this week, and hopefully finishing up a hooking project that I started a few weeks ago.

Fat Lambs, Rainy Days and Beautiful Sweaters

2010-03-20T04:41:00.011-05:00

This morning the robins chirped and sang during chores. The air is sweet and earthy smelling. My garden is waiting. Inhabited by sheep and goats at the moment, it sits under hay and straw while seeds slumber, awaiting the warmth that will urge them to seek the light. Hercules, Godiva and Athena, looking content and full-bellied, are resting by the barn. The air is damp and rain will drive them in soon.

With so many things to do this summer, I welcome this early spring with open arms. I left off fencing the hill in this past fall as the ground began to freeze and then snow began to fall. The barn needs the last of its siding put on, the rams need to be moved to a summer pen, and the paddocks need fencing repairs.

I cleaned the yarn shop up this weekend, rearranged and restocked, the little building will serve us for a few more months as our yarn shop as we have outgrown it's size and new shop plans are being designed.

I have wanted to share the beautiful work my knitting friends have been turning out, just been so busy ...so here are a few. I'll post more on my website this week.

Mary Bird finished this sweater in record time for me to take to the New England Products Trade Show. The pattern is available in the Interweave Knits Fall 2008 Issue. It is The Mosaic Yoke Jacket by Veronik Avery. I chose some eye-popping colors rather than the traditional browns and whites of these types of sweaters. Nice work Mary! You can read Mary's helpful comments and view other versions of this pattern on this Ravelry page.

Sweater Designer Aloisia Pollock left my house with a bag of my favorite colors and returned, also in record time, with this beautiful sweater, designed and knit by her very talented self. The pattern is available through myself and Aloisia on request. I'll post a "full view" pic on my website.

Becca Huben ( fellow weenier dog mom ) knit two shrugs using two strands held together and size 17 needles. This one is done in Mulberry Red and the other in Navy Blue. You can read about her works in progress on her entertaining blog seek an occasional peek of Jackson here.

I also want to thank Susan Swanson for the great hats and finishing my vest for me ( thanks Sue!!! ....I was so far behind!!!! ) She is also an amazing knitter ( with a great dog ) check her work here. She is ahead of me with posting pictures. :)

The week ahead if full as usual. Mostly paperwork and orders to ship, but a much anticipated day of horseback riding is coming soon!

Spring Shearing

2010-02-27T06:18:00.008-05:00

Do I dare say it? It sure seems like it ...the birds are saying it ... and the pond has no ice ...could it be that Spring has come early? Sam came up from the basement with the Maple Tree spiles ready to tap the trees. Such a cutie.

All of the lambs have been born. Meadow had two beautiful lambs during the wind storm that knocked out power for days, and my gigantic monster-of-a-sheep Martha, who I was sure was carrying twins or triplets, had a single spotted little ewe lamb which we have named Godiva. It has been an interesting year for names. We started with a candy theme and somehow,with the birth of Hercules, switched to Greek Gods. Meadow's new babies are being called Zeus and Athena. Both are good sized solid Romney lambs. Their sturdy legs appear to have leg warmers on. We will be shearing in a week, and boy do we need to get the fleeces off these sheep!

Today I am beginning to clip my Angora goats. Paulie Walnuts is half done and Silvio will be next up on the stand. Such beautiful boys ...such beautiful mohair.

Restless Ewes

2010-02-19T09:41:00.005-05:00

Restless ewes make me nervous. I watch and hover, and poke and feel and fuss. They become quite frustrated with me and yet I can't help myself! Watching lambs be born scares and thrills me at the same time. It does not matter if it is lambs, puppies, rabbits, or chicks hatching out of eggs. New life is amazing!

Jelly and Bean have graduated from sweet and innocent, to troublemakers with a mission! They are into everything! Their curiosity know no boundaries and I look forward to letting them out every morning to see what new discoveries they will make ...or who will be their springboard for the day.

Carmella finally lambed a week ago. An almost 14 lb ram lamb we have named Klondike, and a 9.6lb ewe we have named Truffle. This is the largest lamb I have ever had born on my farm and he is marvelous! She looks like her mother with her narrow nose.

Annie popped out this little gem yesterday. If you look closely, you'll see the H on his nose so we are calling him Hercules. Two ewes left and I am done! Seems like I wait and wait and then I am in Lambtopia!

Feed Your Soul

2010-02-01T06:32:00.006-05:00

Another bitter cold morning. Well, this is Maine after all. My hope for this winter was more cold and less snow ...was that a bad choice? My arms are certainly toned and muscular from carrying the water buckets out to the fussy little goats. The sheep get their share too of course, but quite often I will find full, frozen buckets as they prefer to eat snow for some unknown reason. Maybe they just enjoy watching me build up my biceps and know that come spring I will be grateful to them as I pull my summer clothes out of the closet.
Gromit a.k.a Mutant Sheep Boy ( named by my husband ) enjoys the sun with his snug coat and good layer of fat. Gromit is Judy's boy from a few years ago. He is Suffolk/Romney and Babyd0ll Southdown. I think he is kind of cute. My husband says if we fall on hard times he'll feed us all for a solid month he's so fat. ....I do not agree.

Watching the prego-ewes get fatter and fatter makes me very excited! I am beginning to develop an eye for the ones who "drop" and seem to be noticing that more this year than watching for udders. I remember my own pregnancies and when my kids went from bracing themselves off my ribs to dancing on my pelvis. I wonder what these creatures feel as they are not supporting the lower half with bone structure. The grunting I hear when they walk up to the barn must be a sign that it gets pretty uncomfortable. But like all females in this world ...we just keep on going and doing.

My lambing system seems to be working well this year. We sectioned off the back of the barn into four stalls. each with dividers so that as each ewe lambs she is dewormed and moved to the next stall. The first stall is mucked out and re-bedded and ready for the next ewe. With all dividers down, we have a large "play area" for the moms and babes until they can go outside. Of course the one flaw is that I have too many bred ewes ( by adding two to my flock this fall) but we can erect pens as we need them with panels. When lambing is over, we can take down all of the dividers and remove the doors opening up the barn . I am really enjoying this system. It is easier to keep up with and cleaner.

Jelly and Bean have gained almost 3 whole pounds each! I let them out in the barn afternoons as poor Mama Belle is going stir crazy. They are quite the busy boys investigating all corners of the barn and chasing chickens. It is good for the soul to watch these babies enjoying life to the fullest.

You can watch a few videos of them on our Facebook page just search Romney Ridge Farm in the search box ...or click here . :)

Fatties

2010-01-29T18:08:00.002-05:00

A very nice lady, who visited my farm this week, was admiring my sheep and asked why they were divided up in pens. I explained to her that we had a pen for wethers, pregnant ewes and fat loafers. "What" she asked, "are fat loafers?"
Perhaps this picture will help. :)

Jelly Beans

2010-01-23T09:46:00.005-05:00

Well, after a long discussion over breakfast a few days ago, the kids have decided on a theme for naming the lambs this year. There was talk of naming them after rock stars, flowers, and even favorite book characters. Finally a decision was made when I described the two new little lambs that were born on Wednesday as "little black jelly beans". And so ... Jelly and Bean are the first babies born on our farm this year.
A watched pot never boils, yes that is very true. The "pot", my pregnant ewe Belle, presented a water bag Wed morning around 7 a.m. She had spent the night in the jug so there was no chance of her having her lambs in the cold snow. After packing lunches and snacks and sending the kids off to school, I wrapped up in three layers and headed up to the barn to check on her and hopefully see the birth.

Being a first time mom, it is good to see how the lambs present and to listen for the soft talking, a sign of a good mother. I watched and waited as she lay down and got up several times, pawed the ground and had several contractions. This went on for two hours and I began to get cold. So back down to the house I headed for some hot tea and the heat lamp. Sure enough, when I returned ( less than 10 minutes later ), she was standing over lamb #1.

Sprout was very interested in what was happening and steamed up my lens.
Carmella, came over to check things out then .......had a seat nearby and watched the chickens roosting on the stall door.

Martha and the others waited outside the door, but came in to check on progress from time to time.

Finally both babies were here, warm and nursing. Max and I headed back into the house to warm up and clean up. One down, five to go.

Two Feet ...and Counting

2010-01-20T17:34:00.005-05:00

Well, after almost two weeks of no snow and adjusting to the cold ... Mom Nature pulled a fast one. It snowed ...and snowed ....and snowed ....stopped this morning ...started again this afternoon. Okay ....I have had enough. I was actually looking forward to the cold and less snow this year. My "crapsman" snow blower stopped doing it's job today. No big surprise as every appliance, weed wacker, chainsaw ...etc. that comes from Sears lasts about one year, then quits. Time to pay them yet another visit with a broken product and demand they replace it.

My woolie wonders actually made themselves paths today after they listened to the choice words I shouted at the snow blower. Guess they figured it was the least they could do as I stood dripping in sweat, red faced with steam rolling out of my ears. Tonight Belle is a deeply bedded jug, fresh warm water and the best hay I have, accompanied with a generous amount of mixed grains and some molasses lick. Here udder is full, but her teats are still not quite giving me the sign that she is ready. This could change overnight though. I am excited, but exhausted from shoveling and lugging water buckets. I would love to see little lambs in the morning, but am happy to wait until the sun is out.

The Good & The Bad

2010-01-08T06:47:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was a day of good and bad. Lots more good than bad thankfully, in fact only one bad ...but I will get to that. The panic mode that consumes me in early spring wrapped itself around me tightly last week as the weather went from very cold to tolerable in lighter-weight clothing. I have been having lambs for how many years? Yet each and every fall I over think and worry and rethink and fret. So yesterday, fully panicked and worrying, I pulled on my insulated overalls and spent the afternoon mucking out the stalls, re-bedding, cleaning cobwebs, washing and cleaning water buckets and feed pans, and restocking my lambing basket.

I did however take a little time to love on Junior. At a moment of pure exhaustion, I sat down in the hay ...well actually lay down in the hay outside the barn door, and stared up at the blue sky. The sun was shining on the hill and it was warm. My overalls kept me cozy though I knew getting up would take an act of God. Luckily I remembered my camera.

Some days I do not have enough time to spend with him and I do feel very guilty. He is such a love and needs his daily fix of kisses. As soon as he stops growing, he can join the adults and be in the lower paddock. But for now, he has to stay with the boys who continue to Become "men" and eat proper amounts of growing goodness. I'll be in the barn more as soon as the lambs start arriving and I am sure he will love that. I don't feel too bad for him though, he and Mike and Angus have quite the games of King of The Mountain. Speaking of lambs, The first date on my calendar is Jan 25th. This is 145 days from the day I put Crazy Shirley in with Joker. Of course it could be 1-20 days after the date ...and usually the girls are not really willing on the first day. Udders and puffy "hoochies" will give me a more accurate date. I'll have to find the "sheep porn" picture that I took last year when we were about a day away from the first little woolie to arrive. Poor Shirley and Laverne had the hugest udders I have ever seen, and sure enough one day later Lyra arrived and then Pixie.

So all in all the day was satisfying. For once I am ahead of schedule and, dare I say it ...100% prepared. What I wasn't prepared for was the pile of feathers and headless, gutless chicken that was laying on front of the coop. So yes, that was my bad. I saw a large hawk flying around all day but thought that with the dogs out and me making so much noise that it would go away. Apparently when I was lying in the hay, it struck and killed one of my big Buff Orpingtons. He ripped out her feathers and ate her innards as well as her brain ( eeeeeewwwww) and eyes ...and then left the rest! Her crop was still full of grain, the poor thing. So once again I am down another chicken ...so frustrating.

The To-Dos

2009-12-20T06:23:00.012-05:00

When I was in high school I used to have to drive over an hour to enjoy a decent book store. And each month I would make the trek just to spend a few hours in the magazine section oooing and ahhing at the art magazines. Fresh brightly colored works adorned the pages and one talented artist's masterpiece ended up on the cover. I imagined how proud they must have been.

My favorite magazine was one called Southwest Art. I would eagerly await each new issue and literally drool over the pages as I turned them. I was swept away by the colors-bright and bold, the subjects -horses and buffalo, the landscapes, the flora and fauna, and the Native Americans in there settings. I was lost in the pages. I can remember looking a a painting of horses where the artist had used blues and yellows in their coats. I remember thinking "I can see that!" ...and I could. I could see the oranges, copper and golds in their black manes. The landscape was bright and brilliant and I wanted to walk into the pages and run in the open plains.

In fact, I had always planned to visit New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming and Texas, and then life changed and I still have not made it. So maybe in this new year I can make a trip to New Mexico one of my goals. I think Santa Fe would be my first stop. There are several museums and the American Folk Art Marketplace, as well as historical tours and garden tours that I would like to take in. If you visit the website santfe.org you can enjoy beautiful pictures of the area and see what I mean. Just look at those colors!

Of course the reality here this morning is coming down in big white flakes. The brilliant colors in my life today will come from several brightly dyed dyelots of yarn that need skeining and labels put on, and the fresh fruit and vegetables that I filled my refrigerator with as my double chin is about to be a triple chin from to much holiday feasting.

The sheep sat munching in the snow this morning as Max and I walked out to feed. It is quiet and peaceful when the snow falls, but I am not feeling the love for it this year as I have in previous years. Maybe a walk in the woods will help.

And The Winner Is ....

2009-12-11T16:40:00.008-05:00

They day just about got by me when I realized that today is the 15th!

So I pulled out the names of all of the kind folks who have bought calendars so far this year and let my kids pull out two names .... the winners of the 5 skeins of Romney Ridge Farm yarn!

Congratulations to Catherine Chouinard of Massachusetts and Ira Dearing of California!

Ladies, I will do my best to get your yummy yarn in the mail tomorrow!

Yes I know know of these pictures are of yarn ....but aren't these ladies just beautiful?

I am a winner this week as well. My good friend Martha has given me two of her beautiful Romneys ...at least for the winter. I am so happy to have them and I think they are quite happy to be here.

Speaking of being happy, look at Miss Puddin'. She certainly has made herself home here. It is a good thing that my own dogs are so calm and easy going about new members of this family. Max is sharing his favorite "red couch" with little Puddin'.

Looks like to cold air will be back in place for tomorrow. The snow and ice is actually welcome if you ask me. The mud has been just horrible almost like a fall mud season. Now if I can just keep upright while feeding and carrying water buckets!:)

Little Old Ladies

2009-11-28T11:56:00.007-05:00

This past week my 88 year old grandmother had her 6th heart attack. She is a tough Maine woman- out living her husband, losing a son to cancer, working into her golden years while raising her family.
She made the best molasses cookies in the whole wide world, her lemon meringue pie was a half a mile high, and her angle food cake made the angels sing. I made the trek to Machias Hospital -5 hours away, to see her expecting it would be my last visit ...two days later they released her. She is one tough cookie.

The day I got home, my good friend and fellow conspirator, Tammy Doughty DVM called wanting me to come a take a look at a little old Doxie that she had just performed surgery on. She was a shelter dog and it seemed such a shame to send her back to the shelter after loosing 15 teeth. So I thought that maybe I could foster her for a few days until she recovered and look for a home for her in the mean time ...yeah right.

Of course I cautiously introduced the her to my gaggle of dogs. Pirate, my own Dachshund, was not super happy about our guest but he warmed up to the idea after he realized that she was eating canned soft and yummy food and that if he looked sad enough Mom would give him some too. I warned the kids not to pick her up or get in her face, but by the end of two days, she was begging to be picked up, loved and cuddled ..she came to the perfect house.
Sometimes you don't have to think about things, they just feel right and make your heart grow bigger like the Grinch's heart when he felt the true meaning of love. I would never have considered taking an older dog into my home for my own selfish reason of not being able to let it go when the time came. But taking this little dog back to the shelter is not an option. So welcome dog #4 - weenie #2 ...welcome Puddin'.
December's Yarn Share is ready for shipping. The colors are perfect for the season. You can order on our website if you like. www.romneyridgefarm.com Yarn Shares being sent a gifts will be wrapped and include a card.
Looking to the week ahead, I will be delivering yarn orders, teaching a needle felting class, working on some rug hooking designs, and hopefully getting my garlic planted. Hopefully mom nature will freeze the ground soon so my sheep can get a break from the mud ...after I plant my garlic.:)

Wool Boogers

2009-11-13T18:38:00.003-05:00

On the top of my list today was the task of clipping off wool boogers. What are wool boogers you ask? Well, Mike here has a few, little clumps of wool that has become felted little balls due to moisture and agitation. They seem to form around they eyes, the corners of the mouth, and sometimes under the chin. They cause no harm, but when you are known as Handsome Mike, wool boogers on your face are rather unsightly ...you get the idea.

There is no denying he was given the absolute perfect name -Handsome Mike. Just look at his perfect little Romney self. He is shy but not afraid. Sweet like old Joe and different from his brother Angus who is more brave and bold. He is in the "boys" pen with Angus and Junior, Joe and the N.Y. goats. Here he can eat without too much competition and continue to grow. Speaking of the N.Y. goats Here is Silvio. And here is Paulie Walnuts. I spent a little time with them today as well, trimming feet and clipping a few matts from between their front legs. I should have clipped them when I brought them home, but it was cold and rainy and they are such sensitive little creatures. So I'll keep them trimmed up, and wait until spring to get my hands on those beautiful locks.
The UPS man came today and delivered the calendars! I have just finished packaging them up and will be mailing out orders tomorrow. Again ....Handsome Mike is this year's "cover boy" ....isn't he just wonderful?

Tomday! What Have You Done!

2009-11-09T15:12:00.005-05:00

Awwwwwwww! Look at my little Tomday! This morning when I was feeding he peeked out of the barn door. He didn't come running down the hill for breakfast, but instead stood and watched. I could not see his hind end, only his front so I figured he was fine, and would come when he was ready.

After getting the two-leggeds out the door and onto the bus, I began my daily ritual of filling up water buckets and general duties. It was then that I noticed my littlest goat hobbling down the hill on three legs. He left rear leg dangling and crooked off to the side. I felt all of the bones, flexed his joints, and felt for swelling. Sure enough, the lower leg was swollen.

A few hours later we were off to see our favorite doctor -Tammy Doughty who X-rayed Tomday's leg. She found his knee cap was out of place and higher then it should be as well as a small fracture. We figured he must have caught his leg and wrenched it as he tried to free himself.

Tonight he is settled in to the barn in a huge stall with his mother. He'll have to stay in for 4 weeks or at least be in the barn as it has to stay dry. Never a dull moment here.:)

Look at my mama hen defending her chicks from the marauding "sheepdragon". I thought for sure that this little hen had fallen victim to the fox. Instead, she had made herself a nest behind the feed bin, and proudly strutted out of the shed with her little clutch. She is quite proud and a great little mama.

The days are getting shorter now and my life is shifting once again. In the summer I work outside early before the heat of the day. In the fall and winter I wait until mid-morning for the sun to warm the earth and dry the ground from overnight frost.

I am still plugging away at fencing the ridge. A few hours here and a few hours there. I keep telling myself there is a reason why I am not wealthy enough to pay someone else to do it. But then I also remind myself that I am healthy enough to carry rolls of fencing and buckets of nails up the hill. And there is no place I would rather be than up on that hill in the afternoon, surrounded my my peaceful sheep munching all around me. It sooths my soul.

A Give Away!

2009-11-06T14:45:00.005-05:00

While skeining and labeling yarn last night, I noticed that a few random colors I had placed in a basket were the colors of the rainbow. How lovely! How fun they would be to receive in a package in the mail! Imagine opening up a box to find these beautiful colors each one bright and sunny and all looking so perfect together.

Soooo ...I decided that I would enter the names of everyone who buys a calendar before December 15th into a drawing for the yarn! I'll give away two packages of these six skeins of yarn, a pair of bamboo needles, and an extra calendar to the winners.

Winners will be chosen on Dec 15th. Good Luck!

Cool, Crisp ...Ahhhhhh.

2009-11-04T07:01:00.005-05:00

Yea for the sun this week. So far adjusting to the time change has been easy and in my favor, I am waking up too soon ( though my body tells me it is 5 a.m. ...the clock says 4 a.m.) but I am enjoying watching the sun creep up over the ridge. The sun has changed course now and in turn, I need to reconfigure my dyeing and drying techniques.

The deck on our house, where I do all of my drying, faces south and in the summer and early fall some afternoons it is unbearable to sit out there. It makes for excellent drying though. Now the sun is lower in the sky and the few hours I do get are far from enough to wisk the moisture from my freshly dyed skeins. Time to adapt and overcome ...as my husband says.

I've been dyeing a few new colors this week. A deep dark blue and a brilliant violet. Both will be added to my website today. They are the same generous 245 yard/4oz skeins ...they are just beautiful pared together. I am also changing the way the monthly yarn share works. Even though I thought it would be fun for members to open up a package, not knowing what was inside, I have had a number of requests from folks to see the colors before they buy, and I can understand that. So, I will put a picture of the monthly share on the very bottom of the page, that way you have a choice in case you do want to keep it a surprise.:)

I am enjoying the cool crisp weather, but I have a few not-so-happy critters waiting at the gate to go up on the hill. My land is posted, but I don't dare let them out. "Big Tall Sheep" may look a bit like a deer ...well maybe not head on.:)Funny how the leaves are released early from the maples and those oaks hang on with all their might against the winds and rains. Some outlast the fall and winter, then finally new buds must push the elderly leaves to their death. I have so much energy at the end of the day, even when I have been up since the crack of dawn. I sat in the doorway of the barn this afternoon and breathed in the fresh, crisp air with Junior. His 5 minute ear massage turned into about a 20 minute ear massage. Unfortunately I forgot my camera in the house, or you would be looking at some great pictures of Mike and Angus playing king of the mountain.

While taking pictures of some new scarves today, I had a little help from L.T. Funny how much help you can get when you just don't need it.:)

2010 Calendar Update ...from a procrastinator

2009-10-27T12:02:00.006-05:00

I am a procrastinator. Yep. It is true. I have projects due, deadlines to meet, and yet I can't seem to get out of my own way when I have weeks or even months to accomplish them. I have found that sticky -notes help keep me organised - when I don't misplace them. I write events and schedules down in a calendar, then I forget it at home. I have even begun scheduling things in my cell phone so that it reminds me the day before with a cute little "din-dong" sound.

But you know I figured something out about myself two years ago, and that is that I am at the top of my game and the peak of my creativeness when I work under pressure. I can't even wrap my brain around the end result of my work or how to even begin when I know I have time before it is due.

Take my calendar for example. I guess I have a bit of an excuse with that one, as I need seasonal pictures to fill the pages. I swore I would begin designing it in June ...well I stated it four weeks ago. I took pictures all winter, spring and summer looking for the perfect cover shot. I took that picture of Handsome Mike exactly four weeks ago. And isn't it just perfect!:)

Here are a few preview pages. Joker, my Olde Babydoll Southdown ram looking wintry and woolly.

My precious little Katie from a few days old until age two.

And here is Junior with those long fuzzy ears that some how end up in my hands everyday after he eats. I call them his daily ear massage ...he just loves it.

I signed the proof on Friday so the calendars, documenting a portion of my life that I love to share, are off to the printers. They will be available in early Nov so if you like, hop on my website and order. They usually sell quickly.

My new 3 ply yarn is in and it is just scrumptious! The good folks at Green Mountain Spinnery convinced me to try this method of spinning with the chocolaty yummy brown fleeces I brought them in early summer. It is light weight, lofty, and slightly heathered ....mmmmm mmmmmm good! I have thought of several projects I would like to make with this yarn, but I keep coming back to the Ascutney Mountian Hat & Earwarmer pattern in the new Green Mountian Spinnery book 99YARNS and Counting. I am also in love with Maureen's Cardigan on page 56 ( I love her hair too!!) This yarn is fantastic for cables and patterns, it is a light worsted weight - 258 yards/4 oz skein. Every color I pair it up with looks great! Ahhhh I need to go make something with this yarn !:):)

OOOPS ...almost forgot! :)

2009-10-22T10:13:00.007-05:00

Well, how could I forget! Look who followed me home from New York!!!! Meet Paulie Walnuts and Silvio Dante! Two wether Angoras with Texas lines ...where they grow em' big!:)

I walked by their pen several times in Rhinebeck, thinking what nice firm little bodies they had and beautiful horns ...no trouble since they are wethers ( I convinced myself ) small and easy to bring home ....hmmmmm should I get one or two? Well you can't have just one since one gets left behind, so we loaded them up on Sunday and headed back to Maine with two sheep ( belonging to my friends Chrissy and Regina ) and three goats, my boys and a little doe for my friend Betty.

To answer a few questions about my wall hanging, Joe was completely needlefelted using his cap and face wool from this spring's shearing. His face and ears were felted with Babydoll since it is so full and lofty, to create depth.

Uma's face and ears were knit with hand spun wool/mohair yarn, her curls and horns were needle felted, and her nose and mouth were created with stitching yarn.

Mellow Yellow is needle felted from his own clip and his face and ears are crochet. Martha's face and ears are hooked with hand-spun yarn from her fleece (this picture doesn't do it any justice) and her fleece is needle felted on. The last sheep has a woven face and crochet ears.

I'll try and post better pictures this week!

18 HOURS, & 7 MINUTES & 2 SECONDS

2009-10-21T06:38:00.006-05:00

8 hours of needle felting.

1 hour of applique.

1 hour of rug hooking.

2 hours of sewing.

30 minutes of knitting.

30 minutes of weaving

30 minutes of crocheting.

2 hours of fussing.

5 hours of driving to N.Y.

30 minutes of picking hay off ( after I dropped it in the horse trailer) heads and faces.

5 minutes of walking very fast to building E to make the deadline for entry.

2 seconds of shock and heartbreak from the words " your too late, the competition is closed."

1 minute of disbelief.

1 minute of pleading.

1 kind and understanding judge .....equal one BLUE RIBBON!

2009-10-07T05:16:00.006-05:00

When I signed up for the HarborArts Show in April, of course it never occurred to me that it wouldn't be a bright, sunny, fall weekend to sit overlooking the harbor and spin or knit while shoppers perused my booth. Turns out it was quite the opposite! Saturday began overcast and the clouds loomed in my rear view mirror as I drove up the coast to my destination. Foolishly, I wore my favorite, beat-up pair of Keen shoes with a thin pair of socks, but I layered my upper end with my Joe sweater -had to show that off, and down vest. By noon, the rain began falling, it was a heavy mist for a few hours. Boats cruised in and out of the harbor, and people began raising their umbrellas. But you know ...they kept coming! And my booth ...in the dreary grey weather, glowed with bright colors ...and more people began to walk down the paths and into the hollow where I was set up. And the cold inspired folks to knit! Yarns for sweaters, yarns chosen in coordinated colors up for hats and mittens, yarns for ponchos and scarves and vests! Folks became excited and one lady who said she hadn't knit in years chose enough skeins of the bright Turkey Red to make herself a vest! The energy inside my booth was fantastic!By the end of the day I had finished my Weenie Hat, and began a pair of thrummed fingerless mittens. The visitors had inspired me as well.

On Sunday it was a quieter, slow-paced crowd. Fog and heavy mist slowly gave way to cloudy skies and warmer temperatures. The morning was quieter, and I opened up two sides of my EZ- UP tent and watched the bustle on the docks. You could smell breakfast cooking on the big yachts, and dog-lovers brought their dogs to the park for their morning fun. Yesterday I was back to work on my 2010 Calendar. I finished up last night and will send it off for proofs today. I sat on my computer last night cracking up over some of the pictures I found from years past. This project reminds me each year of how fortunate I am to live the life I live. Whether it is shots of my kids laughing and sledding in the snow, lambs bouncing around the paddock, or dogs chasing each other around the yard. It is a good, good life ...and I am so blessed.

Common Ground Fair

2009-09-26T04:37:00.013-05:00

Yesterday I took a little "me" time. With the kids loaded on the bus, water troughs full and sheep quietly munching hay, I headed out to the Common Ground Fair. It was such a beautiful drive into the central area of Maine, the leaves are beginning to turn, the sky was deep greys and blues and the wind was moving the clouds across the sky allowing the sun to peek out and cast rays of light on the earth from time to time. I turned off the radio and drove in silence. Ahhhh peace and quiet.

Quite a few of my fellow fiber farmers were vending at the fair this year, I was accepted, but was put on a waiting list. I didn't push the issue though, as I had such a busy year with the wholesale line that I decided to adjust to the demands of that new venture and enjoy one last year of being free to roam around.

I found my friend Polly first by following the smells of Sweet Annie. Polly was busy cutting this incredibly sweet-apple scented plant and hanging it in her booth. She was wearing one of her beautiful Icelandic sweaters, handknit from her Icelandic yarn ...gorgeous! You'll find the nicest hand-made soap around at her farm, Fibah For Ewe, she is a master soap maker! Next I saw Susan Perrine, my weaving friend. Susy was teaching folks how to weave in the Demo Tent. This summer Susy wove some beautiful scarves using two different weights of my yarns. She is an excellent teacher and offers classes for beginners. Don't have a loom? No problem! She can teach you using boxes, sticks ...just about anything! Ohhh and take a look at her Garden Structures on her website, I want her to build several around my property for my sheep!:)
After a cup of hot cider and roaming through the Craft Tent, Rabbit Barn and Poultry Barn I found Betty. She was busy sharing her knowledge of Angora rabbits and how to spin their fiber. Her booth was overflowing with hand-dyed yarns and roving blends for spinning. Across the way I found Louise and Stephen Hessert of Pleasant Valley Farm . Louise was her usual cheerful self, displaying her yummy Romney yarns and rovings.

From there I wandered off to see Robbi - my favorite potter from Maple Lane Pottery. Robbi creates pottery with sheep ( The "Judy Design" I call it as they look like my Judy ), and Belted Galloway cows, and the coolest chicken designs I have ever seen! I spent most of my money at her booth ( Thanks Robbi!!!) which prevented me from going back through the Rabbit Barn and purchasing another Angora rabbit!

Off to look at the beautiful oxen. mules, cows and goats.

These girls made me feel like my butt is not that big.

Please honey ..... can I have one of these?

Wouldn't Romeo love this little girl to play with?
My day ended watching these beauties effortlessly pull thousands of pounds across an arena.

Back to reality! Back to Romney Ridge!

Circles

2009-09-19T04:55:00.009-05:00

Sometimes I have days when I go in circles, I used to think that I was this great multi-tasker, who accomplished so much in one day, but the reality is I start a lot of things and take three or four more days to actually finish them.

Yesterday I started and completed some very important tasks that I needed to get done, some because the yard was a mess, some because, well, the leaves are turning and the cold will creep up on us before we are ready, and some because I have several deadlines to meet before the end of the month. I started in my humble little barn, mucking out the stalls, and preparing to re-bed them for the winter. Comet, a.k.a. Evil Bunny is free once again to roam the paddocks and raid what is left of my gardens.

Once the barn was mucked out, I pulled down hundreds of dusty cobwebs, packed up the fans, plugged in the emergency lights, and moved the ponys to the front paddock where the run in shelters them from cold November winds and rain.

Then I set up the "boys" side of the barn. All wethers, three of which are still growing, and Angus, whose "beans" have yet to drop therefore making him a ram still, moved to one side where they can have access to plenty of grain and minerals and have less competition for food from the fat piggy ewes. Then it was on to Queen Uma, whose long locks needed to come off before it gets too cold, and they get too long. They fell from my scissors and piled up ion the stand, a beautiful clip!

I did decide to breed two ewes, one out of curiosity and one for saleable lambs. Shirley, Lyra's dam, went in last week, and Annie, my brown Babydoll ewe is in for the rest of the winter. I am tempted to put Millie in as well, as she always gives me such beautiful lambs, but I have a busy spring ahead and two should be enough to lamb out.After barn chores were done, 125 bales of hay were delivered and put in, and I needed to sit down. I sat on the deck and skeined off the latest batch of Wool/Mohair/Angora blend that just came back from the spinnery. My plans were to over-dye the beautiful , light grey yarn, but seeing it in it's natural state, the mohair shimmering in the sunlight, I decided keep it it's true color. It is gorgeous! I'll put it on my website today along with the new shawl pins my potter friend Donna is making.
In two weeks I will be at the Harbor Arts Show in Camden, then off to N.Y. to judge fleeces and win that big ribbon ( that's a poke at my friend Betty! :) ) So the next weeks will keep me busy preparing, dyeing, and creating. The Harbor Arts Show is a beautiful "high-end" show on the waterfront park in Camden - October 3rd and 4th. Hopefully I can focus on the tasks as hand now that my "Sheeple" are all set for cold months ahead.

Maybe I should follow Sam's lead and talk football with Romeo. :)

From Sheep To Sweater

2009-09-06T12:53:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a day I have waited a long time for. For years I have been saying " One of these days I am going to knit myself a sweater from Joe's fleece." Then every spring, I shear and Joe's fleece becomes roving that I spin. Some I sell, and some I have stock piled in my basket of I-will-eventually-get-to-it projects.
This year though, I decide it was time. Joe is getting old, his beautiful silvery fleece came off his old sheep body this spring and revealed a thinner fellow that years past. His teeth are wearing down and he is treated to a soft mash dinner once a day. Now don't worry, I expect a few more good years with him. My husband was working on the barn yesterday and when he crinkled the wrapper of his granola bar, old Joe came running from the other end of the paddock, hopped over a ladder and began begging like a dog for a piece of the yummy surprise that I am sure he thought was for him.

This spring, I needed a few good knitters to turn out some sample knitting for me so I posted my needs on Ravelry. A young lady from Portland responded and within a few weeks had whipped up two samples. WOW!...this girl is talented ...I knew I had found my "Joe Sweater" knitter. We looked at patterns, took a few measurements, and off she went with a 2840 yard cone of Joe yarn.

Saturday, she returned with the most beautifully knit sweater I have ever seen. I chose a pattern that made up into a long swing-coat type sweater. The detail is exquisite, the silvery yarn flows, and has beautiful drape. I can't stop looking at it, showing it off to friends, holding it, wrapping myself up in it! I just LOVE it! Thank you Bristol! Thank you for your beautiful work, and the time you put into this project. Thank you!

And thank you old friend...here's to many more seasons of watching you grow that beautiful fleece ... and to many more seasons of you.

Rich Reds and A Fall Palette

2009-09-01T16:57:00.006-05:00

I'm getting really excited !!! A few of my very talented knitters are almost done with the patterns I am working on. Some have designed for me, some are following, tweaking and correcting my patterns, and some are following patterns they have used for years. All are creating finished products to show how nicely this beautiful 100% Maine yarn knits up. I have introduced some new colors for fall. One being a rich mulberry red, and another a soft pear yellow. YUMMY! They look so beautiful drying on the deck in this perfect weather. Look closely my Yarn-Of The-Month junkies ....September's yarn is in this mix. Remember to check out the Dachshund Rescue of North America's website - Hamlet is who I am donating sales portions to this month.

Aloisia Pollock, a knitwear designer from Jefferson designed this beautiful scarf for me using only one skein of yarn. She displays and sells her work at Pinetree Yarns in Damariscotta. I am so impressed with her work, and she uses Maine grown wools and llama blends. Yea!!!! Her patterns are available for sale at Pinetree Yarns.

Well I cannot show you the beautiful harvest from my garden this year. Mostly summer squash and buttercup squash made it through the damp, wet spring, the rainy summer and the cool late summer that we are experiencing now. The celery and broccoli didn't do too bad, but it is all eaten up and none was left to freeze for winter. These Jerusalem Artichokes look just beautiful though, I suppose I could dig up the roots and eat them. Romeo and Uma are enjoying the lower leaves, and will ultimately eat the whole thing when the first frost sets in. This week I will work on sorting another 250 lbs of fiber, clipping Uma is high on my "to-do" list as well, and Joker's bachelor pad needs securing. I am hopeful that we will have a beautiful Indian summer. Why not, we deserve it.

The cool, dry, sunny weather puts an extra spring in my step, and makes me feel very artsy-fartsy. Time to get cracking on the entry for the New York Sheep & Wool Festival. Last year I won 1st place, this year I am going for Best In Show ... hmmmmm I wonder what Betty is up to? ( wink, wink).

All was well.....

2009-08-18T13:20:00.004-05:00

All was well on the little farm. Peaceful and good, sunny and bright. And then one morning, the mercury on the thermometer rose ...and rose ... and suddenly the chickens were panting, beaks ajar, panting as if they were dogs and fanning their wings to keep cool The sheep hid in the dark barn, and the ponies lay in the shade of the maple tree. No one came out in the heat of the day, no one except Joker, who stood in the hot sun and protested the heat. His loud "burp-like" baaaaaas came from deep within him, and suddenly I remembered. He had not been shorn in the spring, Joker needed relief!!!!

A quick call to Jeff, our shearer, and within 20 minutes he had shorn Joker, along with Mabel and Vespa, my two Border Leicesters. As always, Joker's fleece came off looking like a bear rug.

The it was Alice & Mello-Yellow's turn to find relief. My scissors flew around the bunnies' backs and up their bellies. Ahhhhhhhhhh ....what a relief it must be for them. And a treat for me to have these fleeces and beautiful Angora fur to blend into soft roving for spinning.

Today the temperature reached 104 on my deck. Of Course it is in the direct sun with no shade. Standing in the shade makes the outdoors bearable, but still the night time relief is welcome.

After 4 o'clock chores, we are headed for the beach.:)

Maine Fiberarts Tour Weekend ...a great success!

2009-08-02T14:13:00.006-05:00

This past weekend, many folks stopped in as they toured farms and studios across Maine. Romeo, exhausted from guiding folks around the farm, pulling zippers on coats and purses, bumming food, and pulling tags off my yarn, finally took a rest on his "front step throne".

Over 65 visitors came, some from as far away as Finland and England, who told me that my yarn was some of the nicest they had seen ( yes my head is swelling ) and bought skeins to take back as gifts for their families ( yes, I am very proud ).

My good friend and weaver Susan Perrine brought over her loom and we designed what we are calling The Kelly-Green Scarf. It is woven from hand-dyed skeins in two weights, in shades of greens and a slight bit of blue. I could have sold it a few times, but instead took orders ....I am wearing this one to the show in Camden, this September!:)

Greens seem to be the "in" color this year.

Two years ago I couldn't keep up with the purples, then it was teals and blues. The colors change with the seasons as well, more natural colored greys and charcoals leave in the hands of knitters, and DK weights go fast in the fall as the sock knitters are replenishing there stash for winter knitting. The last batch of DK yarn that I dyed was in late summer colors ...golden yellows and crisp blues look stunning along with deep spruce greens, and dark turquoise.
August is a lazy feeling month on our farm. The heat of the day causes large woolly creatures to lay in sleepy lumps in the paddocks. Fat ewes and babies pile together like hound dogs on a porch, chickens stretch out in the dust and sun themselves, and freshly clipped Angora bunnies are relax in front of fans in the barn. Uma and Tomday have decided to be "lawn ornaments" like Romeo. Each morning they sneak under the fence to eat grass all day, then relax and digest on the front steps. If we ever get the deck built, we will have to pull the current steps off the house and attach them beside the new deck so the goats can continue their reign.

This morning I delivered more washed fleece to the spinnery. After this run I am going to have a nice fat bulky spun, then more DK weight. Only 3200 lbs of fleece left to work through!

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2009-06-24T05:48:00.005-05:00

Well ...terrific! ...with all of this rain.

My garden is happy to drink in all of nature's goodness, the peas are far reaching, and the broccoli is huge. We are eating lettuces and soon celery and peas. I accidentally went overboard with the acorn squash again... it will need more room to reach it's twisted long arms around the fences and to climb up the trees that border my garden. Last year a could not wait to eat it and picked a few too soon...they were delicious! I do not want to rush summer ( if it ever comes ) but I am looking forward to those delectable fruits of my labor! Last night I cut and cooked some broccoli, today I am making quiche with it and the beautiful eggs my chickens give me. MMMMMM summer.

Yesterday I dyed around 120 skeins of yarn. I was filling an order from a yarn shop in Lubec. They have chosen some beautiful dark shades of blues and greens and that always popular spicy brown. I started on a second order and then a third. The plan was to dye all one color to fill orders then go to the next and so on and so on .... but I could not help myself! I started up two more pots and went a little coo-coo! The fourth order was a special request of colors. The customer requested I create combinations of colors for their order ...and best of all said " go nuts!" So I did and I will continue today and all next week, dyeing from my shop, and for orders from others. Yippeee!

The recent Yarn -Of-The-Month fundraiser went very well. I donated the proceeds to The Dachshund Rescue of America. I chose two Doxies to adopt, but my husband pointed out how upset Pirate would get. He is probably right, but maybe I could take one for a "sleep over" and see how Pirate does with it. I think he would enjoy someone his size to play with. Someday I would like a herd of Doxies running around my yard ....someday.

Pictures a re worth a thousand words ...so I'll try not to say too much!

2009-06-11T17:01:00.006-05:00

Well, it was another dreary day in the neighborhood of make believe. I have been on the phone and computer way too much since I returned from the Fiber Frolic. There is so much raking and cleaning up to do from mucking out the paddocks. So in between downloads and waiting for calls to be returned, I weeded my garden, and began raking, and raking, and raking. Of Course I was distracted and had to go in with the woolies and take a few pictures.
Tomday was VERY curious about the camera. He cautiously approached then stole my lens cap! The little stinker! He has taken Lyra's place as the pest of the paddock. As usual Lyra was too close to take a picture of, she is still my baby and needed to be a close as possible without crawling into my pocket.
Mike is growing into his handsome self. He is now known as Handsome Mike. I suppose he will take Joe's place one of these days. He is so calm and has this very sweet look about him. Old Joe continues to hold the biggest place in my heart. He is 10 now and continues to be a strong healthy boy, but I fear his teeth are getting quite worn down and he is spoiled with a mash I make for him everyday. I hope to have a few good long years ahead with him.

Angus, Mike's twin has such a different look about him he is also very sweet and calm. Sometimes I have to watch to be sure he gets his share of food, He is so non aggressive.

Priscilla is just beautiful. Her stout little body is like a loaf of bread. She has her mothers eyes.

For a brief moment the sun did shine today ....look at my garlic! It is over 4 feet tall!And last but not least. I took a few pictures of my shop. I have moved things around a bit, so it seems bigger and not to cluttered. Come visit soon!

Fiber Frolic

2009-06-09T16:23:00.003-05:00

Last weekend, I spent a lovely two days "frolicking" as a vendor at The Maine Fiber Frolic. Saturday I worked at the Annual Maine Sheep Breeders Association Wool Pool. 8,000 pounds of Maine grown wool was sorted and bagged by breed and type - fine medium or coarse. Yesterday, I delivered the last of the wool to the washing facility in Waldoboro. WHEW! That's a lot of wool! After washing, the wool will be spun into various weights of yarn, some 100% wool, some blends, and some will be carded into roving for spinning.

Best of all, the wool is from Maine, it will be available as finished product at a wholesale price. Many yarn shops in Maine New Hampshire, and VT are already planning to carry this line of 100% Maine-grown yarn. I am proud and excited to be a part of this process!

Yesterday I Was Inspired .....

2009-06-03T05:17:00.006-05:00

Yesterday met someone who inspired me.

This person, with a big smile, adventurous heart, and beautiful outlook on life, shared her life adventures with me. She is an artist, an author, and like me, at one point, she was a stay-at-home mother who ran a farm, and a successful business. We shared stories of our children, and how we make it all work in the many roles we play. We laughed at the frustrations of those children, the animals, and of running a business, and shared solutions and ideas that make the ride a bit smoother. Thanks Elaine! I am excited and ready to get this project started! ( wink, wink) ....I will see you next week!

Each spring as I travel around, the lupine and vast array of summer flowers, beckon me to paint. I used to paint when I was younger, mostly watercolor, some acrylic, sometimes I would sketch in pastels. It always made my heart full when I created. It still does, but I don't paint enough anymore. It is something I intend to change this summer.

Today I will finish up preparing for The Maine Fiber Frolic. Each year, I have a booth beside my good friend Betty Stover of Spinakees' Farm. We have decided we are never in competition with each other, but rather that we compliment each other ...although I do tend to win the bigger ribbons ...right Betty? Hahaha ..I love you Betty!

This is weekend I also manage the Maine Sheep Breeders Association Wool Pool. Many good Maine Shepherds "pool" their wool and sell it to the highest bidder. This year myself and Claudia Reassler of Royal River Alpacas, were the highest bidders. Claudia will be blending her portion with Maine grown alpaca to create a beautiful blended yarn , and my portion will be spun into 100% grown in Maine, hand-dyed, wool yarns. Both yarns are available wholesale.

You can learn more on my website or better yet ...come visit me this weekend at the Frolic!

And ...if you visit the Sheep Barn, take part in the Knit-In. There will be a table set up with donated yarns from Maine farms for visitors to knit 4X4 squares that will be combined into a blanket, which will be raffled off in the fall. The money will support youth programs for kids who are involved in shepherding. Hope to see you there!

2009-05-23T16:03:00.004-05:00

Thursday I morning, I brought all of my dye-pots up from the basement. By Thursday evening I had picked up four big boxes a was pre-washing my beautifully spun skeins. Friday morning I began dyeing oranges, reds, yellows, blues, greens and purples ...I went nuts!

While I was working in the kitchen, I let the sheep out to mow the lawn, pull the weeds, and trim the shrubbery. I caught this shot as old Joe peeked around the back of my Yukon saying "What ...I have to go in now?" The very well-behaved-woolies stayed in the yard though temptation was close at hand in the form of taller grass growing up the driveway and down by the road.

Tomorrow the dyeing process continues. Aside from raising the sheep ...it is my favorite part. I have a few new projects in mind and with all of this color around, I'm ready to get started before the skeins are even dry!

Of kids, and crazy weeks

2009-05-16T05:46:00.006-05:00

It was so nice to wake up this morning and know the past week is over. Nothing bad happened ...all is well. It just was a week of not being able to get out of my own way. Some things were finished, some are still waiting. Some didn't even get started!:) Oh well ... life goes on. I am enjoying having my first Angora goat kid on the farm. Kids are very different from lambs, he has been curious, yet cautions. He stuck close to his mom all last week, then yesterday, his courage grew and he strayed quite far from her watchful eye. Uma is a terrific mom, she knows were he is every second, and he kept her on her toes, weaving in and out of sheep, climbing on the rock wall, and exploring all corners of the paddock. I must confess...I cannot keep my hands off him!

Recently I had a few folks knitting for me. If time allowed I would like to take on more projects, but the wholesale line is keeping me quite busy, so thankfully these ladies are keeping up the work for me. Thanks girls!

This sweater was knit by Bristol Ivy, using my wool/mohair blend in its natural color. She assured me I could make it for myself very quickly, so as soon as my son's baseball season is over, I am going to give it a shot. Bristol is on Ravelry as joyousbohemian, check her out, she is quite a talented knitter!
Bristol also knit this cami, and now has my beautiful Joe on her needles. She is making a sweater/jacket for me from Joe's fleece. This year I had just Joe spun into a worsted weight yarn by NEWAIM Fiber mill. Nancy does such a terrific job, and I have wanted to do this for a long time as Joe is getting old. I need to have him forever! His fleece spun into over 5000 yards of beautiful silver grey.

I also want to thank Roberta and Becca, who are also knitting for me. I will include their work in my next post.

The Queen... delivers

2009-05-07T17:15:00.002-05:00

The Queen was restless yesterday. After breakfast she bossed the peasants around as usual, picked at the hay, and got up and down, and up and down. Her tail flicked back and forth and she arched her back from time to time as she gazed down over her kingdom. Her eyes were far away at times and she wandered away from the barn looking for a private place. The Queen, the beautiful Queen then gave birth to a beautiful boy. ....and I am delighted!

Wool On Wheels

2009-04-21T05:04:00.006-05:00

Imagine what folks must have thought when this passed them on the highway? Well we certainly got a lot of strange looks. Crammed into almost 350 pounds of wool, my mother, friend Betty Stover, and I hit the road as soon as the kids got on the bus Friday morning headed to VT.

It was a quick trip down, with a stop in Kennebunk to purchase Cushing dyes from the Maine based business. I enjoyed seeing the beautiful hand-hooked rugs created by the talented Joan Moshimer. He artistry was brilliant, her rugs were exquisite. Sadly she has passed away now, but her work lives on for the public to enjoy in books and at this small gallery in Kennebunk.

The next stop was Green Mountain Spinnery, where owner David Ritchie greeted me with the usual laugh and smile. We unloaded the bags, weighed and recorded the blends that he would then spin into yarns for us, took a deep breath, then headed to Nashua N.H.for dinner and a good night's sleep.

I had to get back. The condition of the Queen weighed heavily on my mind. Although she wasn't due for a few days, I had my good friend Dr. Tammy Doughty "on-call" in case anything happened. So far she has held on, looking like a water balloon that was dropped from a few stories up and did not break upon impact, but rather displaced the water to it's sides. Poor thing.

Yesterday, I rototilled the garden and increased the area for more veggies. With a day of rain on the way, I decided not to put down the weed cover and let "mom nature" give the soil a good soaking. Friday I will place the cover and plant. The weatherman tells me that it will be in the 70's by then, and I want to get the planting started before the pesky blackflies arrive and ask me to donate blood.

I was lucky enough to catch these shots of Priscilla stalking and attacking the Guinea hen. She is one of the highest jumpers I have ever seen. The Guinea ran back and forth trying to escape the black devil that chased her, then fluffed up her feathers and turned on her attacker!

Surprised, the little lamb ran off the rock wall and straight under my legs! Her mom then ran after the Guinea hen! It was quite the drama that played out in the late afternoon sun.

Today is paperwork day (yuck), but the rain is falling and the wind is blowing, and there is nothing I can do outside. I will take a break at some point to do some felting. I have new pillows to stuff, and a few crocheted hats to finish off. So off I go to get through the dreaded number crunching.

Watch for udpates on Queen Uma. :)

Ahhhhh ...The Sun

2009-04-13T12:57:00.006-05:00

Nooooo! I don't want to be inside. That's how I feel on days like today. I did assign Monday as my Paperwork Day, but gosh it is hard to be in here when the sun is shining so brightly, and lambs are hoping around, and raking needs to be done......

Yesterday I discovered that my garlic endeavor is successful! These shoots were poking through their winter ground cover, exposed by scratching chickens. I quickly covered the patch with chicken wire to keep the eager-to-dust-bathe hens from disturbing the growth.

Speaking of chickens ...or rather roosters. This hen is not what it seems. I've been watching it's neck get longer, and it's waddle increase in size. Then, a few days ago, a rather muffled, sickly, screeching "rrrr-rr-rrrrr" exploded from an inexperienced creature who appeared to be stunned at the noise that came from his own beak.

The first crow was mysterious, it sounded like he had crowed into a tin can. I turned and looked in the direction of the familiar first-timer's crow, and spotted him on the compost pile. He scanned the yard, searching for "anyfowl" who might be as impressed as he was with himself, and finding no head was turned, no eyes were upon him, he puffed up his chest and let out another screech, this time a bit louder than before, and for added affect, he flapped his wings and shook his head when he was done.

Not one hen ran to him with adoring eyes. Not one hen swooned over his majestic song ( that sounded more like a smokers cough to me ). Disappointed he wandered down from the compost and began scratching the ground looking for springtime goodies in the dirt. Not long after he discovered what he could do, he was chased away by Bob our resident rooster. There has been no real fighting between the two, only Bob, running after Elvis from time to time. But Elvis seems content to be number #2 rooster for now. If things change though, he will be looking for a new home. But we will hope for the best.

My garden plans have out grown the current fenced in, Romeo-proofed, plot that I used last year. So rather than scraping out the winter paddock, I have decided that I will rototill, amend, and use the space as a pumpkin and squash patch. This will move the larger plants out of my current space which will also be expanded by a 128 square foot addition. Then after the growing season, the sheep can do most of my clean up work. Keeping in mind the dangers of nitrate poisoning from the tomato plants, I will have to pull all expended plants, but they can eat the pumpkins, and whatever else I decide to throw into the mix.

I have cleaned and packed away most of my lambing supplies for the year, keeping only a few items out for Uma who is due on or around the 23rd. I watched her sides pop in and out as she was eating last night, I wish I could tell how many babies are in there but I cannot be sure. I will guess just one as she is not that big herself and it seems that most of the action only occurs on one side at a time. But Queen Uma has fooled me before. Here she is, almost all clipped. Finishing her is on my to-do list for tomorrow.

Here are my cuties, Lyra, Pixie, Mike and Angus. It was so nice to have just these four babies this year. They are growing and healthy, and such important members to my flock.

Priscilla is enjoying life as well, hopping around, playing hide-and-go-seek, and harassing chickens. I have yet to meet a lamb that won't chase chickens when it gets the chance. It is pure joy to them as they are just slightly afraid of the feathered beasts ...delightfully scared I call it.

On a funny note, here is what happens when you spray Blue-coat ...the wrong way. It is a great healer of woulds, cuts, and all around skin conditions ...for animals. It will take a few days for the purple stain to wear off, so as I anxiously await the arrival of my green thumb ... I will opt for a purple finger. :)

THE TALL, TALL MAN ....and the little tiny sheep

2009-04-02T07:25:00.004-05:00

I have, without a doubt, the best shearer in the universe. Jeff Burchstead of Buckwheat Blossom Farm in Wiscasset, has been shearing for me for quite a few years now. I marvel at how this 6-foot plus man can stand so tall after a day of being bent over, holding struggling sheep between his knees, and running shears up, down and around pregnant bellies, swollen udders, and the unmentionables of the boys. And the best part you ask???? He operates similar to me ...relaxed, at a good pace, and efficiently.

I joked with him the year I began having more Babydoll Southdowns to shear. I thought it would be easier to shear little sheep as opposed to giant Columbias and Romneys. Not so ... being bent over a big sheep is easier to being bent waaaaaay down for a man of such stature. Still, he works through my rouges gallery of long and shot fleeces and tall and tiny sheep.

On another note, one sheep presented me with quite a surprise. Isabella, who roams free on the lawn all summer ( and who grows one of my nicest fleeces ) presented a full udder when Jeff flipped her up to be shorn. Two days later, she was standing over a tiny little lamb in the corner of the barn.

This new little life, all four pounds of her, was standing, licked clean and nursing aggressively within minutes! After scooping her up and leading Isabella into a jug, the two settled in for some good food and a rest. I have named this baby Priscilla.

Lambing is done ...now we wait for Uma. She is due in two weeks.

Let Me Tell You a Tale

2009-03-28T10:02:00.009-05:00

NOTE: This post was written Saturday ...

...of broken washing machines, bad coffee, mud, fish chowder, and shearing sheep.

I guess it's true what the song said...you take the good, you take the bad, you put them all together.......

The bad ... my washing machine died with a load of towels...filled to the top with water.

THE GOOD ...( see how I made those letters bigger :) ) my husband is somewhat mechanically inclined and just ordered the new timer.

The bad ...I woke up waaay too early this morning, got up and brewed a pot of coffee that was waaay too weak, but since I cannot waste anything, poured myself a big cup.

THE GOOD: Max jumped up on the couch with me and I spilled most of my big cup all over my lap & laptop. So I had to brew an new pot.

The bad ... MUD ...need I say more?

THE GOOD ...the slow warm up is giving the ground enough time to slowly absorb the water and mud so in another week or so it should get much better around here.

That's it, there is nothing bad about the tasty fish chowder I that is filling the house with a yummy smell. Biscuits with butter and fish chowder for dinner tonight!

....AND let's not forget shearing! My shearer will be here in a few hours, I have locked everyone in the barn to stay dry as it is rather foggy and damp here today. Last night when I brought them in, I stood amidst the munching and made my list. Whites, darks, lamb fleeces, weights for CD&T doses, and scales to weigh fleeces.

I have special projects for some of the wool. Katie and Sam's little fleeces are going to be blended with Uma's mohair and some bunny. I think I will keep it for myself. Old Joe is my all time favorite to hand-spin, so he will become roving. The rest will be decided as I skirt them next week.

And so ends my tale for today. I will leave you with a shot of fully clothed sheep.

In a few hours they will be naked and many pounds lighter ...hmmmmm wouldn't that be sweet if we could do the same! Pictures tomorrow ... of naked sheep.

What's Up?

2009-03-20T12:28:00.010-05:00

Please bare with me as I go through another one of my " time for a new look" phases. I like to keep things fresh and evolving. :)

Time goes by so fast these days. It seems I was complaining about the cold not too long ago, and yesterday, while raking up in the barn, I was sweating! The slow melt is good, and if we can keep the rain away for a week or so, I may not have the "boot-sucking" mud to deal with much longer.:)

The lambs are growing and thriving. I can't help pulling up my bucket chair each afternoon and watching them. The sun shines on the front of the barn in all afternoon, and they seem to pile up like hound dogs on the porch, basking in it's warmth.

Lyra and Pixie continue to follow me around as I rake or pick up fallen branches each time I am in the paddocks. Winter storms left us with quite a mess this year. Both ewe lambs are friendly as puppies, enjoying my attention. The boys, Mike and Angus, are gorgeous lambs. Beautiful Romneys that I am so happy to have.

My yarn shop has had a make-over. I rearranged shelving and displays to maximize space, and have added new goodies. My latest blend of Romney, Corriedale, Mohair and Angora has dyed up beautifully, and I have taught myself to crochet some great little hats using this yarn. I also started a pair of legwarmers for my daughter ...I used to wear those!:)

I have spoken for a little Angora buck this spring, and I hope to make a trip to pick him up soon. He will be wethered and used just for fleece, then if Queen Uma gives me any babies, my little herd of Angoras will grow. They will have their own new barn and paddocks and work on keeping the saplings from growing.

Chickens arrive soon as well, and seeds will be planted an a few days ....busy, busy, busy.

Life is very good ...if you don't listen to the news.

The Long-legged Monster

2009-03-13T05:23:00.007-05:00

A full, round moon shines brightly over the tree tops as I write this early in the a.m. It is quite silent in the early morning innocents of the day. In a few moments I will pull on my boots, coat and hat and inhale to cold air that smells a bit like spring is close by. The deck will crackle from my weight as I step on to it's cold planks. The gate will creak, and then I will hear it. The ear-piercing "maaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" that belows from the small, long-legged monster. Lyra knows I am coming!

She will gallop down the hill from her warm straw nest. He little voice will be as mighty as that that comes from a trumpeting elephant! The old sheep will shake their heads at the young whipper-snapper. The younger sheep will rise, startled from the noise. And I will step into the paddock, pull up my bucket-chair, and produce a warm bottle of milk from my coat pocket. The attack will ensue.

This is no exaggeration. It is an attack. After sucking down the warm milk in record time, Lyra will try and climb in my lap. If I don't rise from the bucket immediately after the frenzied feeding, tiny sharp hooves will dig into my legs. As I feed the others, spreading hay around, filling all of the feeders, a nose bonks my legs. The swift black monster weaves in and out of my legs, occasionally tripping me, or sending me, off balance, into the fence.

When every creature is contently munching hay, I stop, sit back down on my bucket and allow Miss Lyra to take all she needs from me. my hands rub and scratch her back and head. I kiss her cheeks and talk to her. What else can I do?

Lyra's ovine mother enjoys her breakfast, oblivious to the fact that she is the one who should endure the incessant "bonking" and demanding. She is the one who should be climbed on and calling this little creature to her side ...this little pest.

Mother nature hold many mysteries. The mystery of why Lyra's mother rejected her. The mystery of my patience, and the energy that this little soul has tapped from me ... where does it come from?

It will then be time for me to come inside and wake my own two-legged monsters. Time to get ready for school, and the day. The little black face will watch me walk away. Her full belly has recharged her to hop and pop around the paddock with the other lambs, pesting the older sheep, tasting the different grasses from the hay, and exploring all corners of her world.

"I'll be back soon.", I always tell her. And I will ...ready to face the next attack.

Mike & Angus

2009-03-05T16:58:00.003-05:00

The much awatied birth of Mike and Angus came yesterday morning around 5 a.m.

All are well ...and I am pooped. Mike is the larger of the lambs, and Angus slightly smaller.

The story of their birth and of Lyra The Pest who fogot she is s a sheep ...in a bit.

Spring Yarns

2009-02-28T07:27:00.004-05:00

In the dreary, colorless land of Februaryinmaine, if you look hard, you'll find a surprise.

The color palette used by Mother Nature is limited to shades of grey, whites, dark greens, and dirty snow ...is that a color? The brilliant red winter berries that screamed "look at meeeeeee!" this past fall, have been devoured by the birds leaving only bare branches ... no color.

The autumn oak leaves are still hanging on to the trees, but their pumpkin oranges are now dreary, decaying browns. Everything seems so blaaaaaahhhhhhh ...and then I hear him.

At first he is far away. I whistle. He comes closer. "Reveal yourself!" I yell, and whistle again. And then there he is, sitting in the tippy-top branches of the tall pine tree. My friend, the cardinal. The sun is peeking through the clouds and creating a glow around him, he sings his beautiful song and tells me, "Get inspired Kelly!"

I look around me. The plain white ducks, who splashed with joy in the tub of water I set out for them to bathe in, are not plain white, but rather yellow with bright orange feet and beaks. The sheep are not dirty white, but beautiful, rich browns, blacks, whites, even tones of blue are visible in the white fleeces. Look at those beautiful pine needles! Look at the shades of blue in the sky! Look! Look! Look!

And then ...they dye-pot comes out .....look!

Diggin Out ...again

2009-02-24T07:40:00.004-05:00

It was sneaky ...it arrived after I scoffed at the weatherman ...it came later than predicted and hit with brutal force. I do not find it pretty anymore. I do not want to shovel or snow blow anymore. I curse the groundhog. Where is spring?

As frustrated as I am with this latest round of heavy wet snow, I have to thank my lucky stars that everyone/creature is safe. A tree was brought down by the weight of ice and then heavy wet snow. I chill came over me as I looked out the window yesterday morning to see it had fallen into the pony paddock. I did not see movement ...but I also did not see casualties. I quickly pulled on my boots and coat and ran out to asses the damage. The large maple had fallen, missing the pony barn, the ponies, my ram, fences and the power lines. It must have been horribly scary for the animals as we had lost power overnight and no lights were on.

L.T. ran under the tree and enjoyed some comfort from me as well as a nice breakfast. Everyone was safe in the back barn as well.

It feels very small and enclosed when we have these storms. Branches, that have not broken from the weight, are bent to the ground. There is no openness unless I walk up on the hill, and that is pretty much impossible with the snow so deep and crusted. I spent almost two hours yesterday making wide paths with the snow blower, scraping snow from roofs, and digging out gates. I was spent when I came in.

The kiddos enjoyed another day off from school, playing in the snow and building snowmen with the sticky snow. No t.v. no power...just imaginations and board games.

Today the sun is starting to melt the un-needed mess, but it will take more than one day with temps in the 30s to make it all go away, and they are telling us we will have heavy rain by the weekend....YUCK!

Sprout is due to have her lambs soon. I watched her last night as I fed Lyra her last bottle for the evening. She reminds me of Judy in the last stages of pregnancy. We referred to her as the aircraft carrier. Poor thing, she seems so uncomfortable. If I watch closely, I can see movement on he sides. This is an exciting year for me ...I am actually crossing my fingers for ram lambs!

Lyra & Pixie

2009-02-16T10:41:00.008-05:00

Amazingly two weeks have gone by since Lyra and Pixie arrived. It is a very different lambing season for me this year.

1. Lambing in February.

2. Having only three bred ewes.

3. Having large lambs.

Keep in mind, that my ram is a Babydoll Southdown and his genetics have alot to do with the size of the lambs he helps create. So it is a little surprising that these lambs have such a good size to them. I love their long legs and loins!:)

Pixie has gained 5 lbs since birth and Lyra has gained 8!

Lyra has become a member of the flock now, bouncing around, pesting everyone she can during the day, then snuggling in a safe, warm stall with Katie at night.

Katie was my bottle lamb last year, she has remained small with a loving personality. She wasn't so sure she liked Lyra at first, but now they are chums. All of my sheep are good friends, a tight unit.

Giving my usual breeding ewes the year off has been great for their body conditions. It has been a nice break for me as well. I have had more time to work towards growing my yarn business and have still enjoyed a few babies hoppin' and poppin' around the paddock.

The dyepot is full today....stay tunes for my latest creations!

Super Bowl Baby

2009-02-08T06:06:00.007-05:00

Since the Pats weren't playing this year, I managed to have another source of entertainment last Sunday ...Lyra.

There was quite a commotion in the barn as I walked out to feed. I had put Shirley in the jug the night before as her udder had tripled in size and she was not all that interested in her dinner ...a sure sign that something is up. Sure enough, lying in the straw was a long-legged black lamb. Shirley was not happy. I quickly moved in to grab the lamb as mom blew and snorted at her, slamming her against the wall . A sinking feeling grew in my chest as I tried with no luck to make the mother realize that this little miracle was here to be loved, and was hers to nurture.

After a day of trying, tying mom, milking a swollen udder, and showing her time after time that it was okay...I gave up. If there is no bond within a few hours, I don't think there ever is one. I've been told that mothers can be forced to accept their lambs by putting them in a stanchion and forcing them to nurse. But where is the love? Where are the gentle nuzzles and sweet mumbles? Lambs crave love ...it is true. And why tie an animal and force her to do something she is clearly not happy to do, and create fear and distrust? This is why I tell people I am not a real farmer.

So the new "black sheep of the family", Lyra, spent two days in the kitchen, and now resides in the barn with Katie and Sam, two of last year's lambs. She is happy, she is not alone and she is loved.

My daily and nightly treks to the barn to feed her, a bit hard to adjust to at first, are now routine. Her happy little bouncing, to greet me and climbing me like her own mountain to conquer, show me that she is content in her environment. He mother, who resides just on the other side of the barn is still uninterested in her. No longer mean, just not sure Lyra is something she is supposed to care about ...I told her that it was okay. She is sill an important member of my flock, things just didn't work out.

Lyra, like any toddler is an imp. Her days are spent exploring, pesting others, eating, sleeping and pooping ...what a life. Last Friday I took her to my feed store, where she bounced up and down the isles and charmed everyone in her path. Then off to visit the creative ladies at MaineFiberarts. Knitting needles stopped clicking when she arrived in her green sweater. Confidently she explored the bags of yarn and papers that were at her level, then fell asleep in my arms as I chit-chatted with the ladies. Now isn't that a better life than being left in a stall with a mother that doesn't want you. I think so.

Three days after Lyra was born, Laverne, another early-bred ewe, presented me with a beautiful little white ewe lamb, Pixie. She is as beautiful as Lyra with her long legs, and fuzzy ears. This time, this mom took on her role is caretaker of the new life.

The Queen Returns

2009-01-22T14:52:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, Queen Uma returned to her kingdom. She left in November to visit with a handsome knight at nearby Spinnakees' Farm.

Though she visited the knight last year, she did not produce any heirs. So, being the mighty queen that she is, she returned for an extended stay.:)

It sure is nice to have her back! With any luck, she is carrying a few little goatie babies for me to love in April.

Here is a little sheep porn. These pregnant girls were "crotched" ( sheared around udders, back legs and vulvas ) last week as it is too cold to completely shear them. This allows me to watch udders grow, keep an eye out for prolapse, and yes ...look at their hoochies.

A few days before lambing, they will look very swollen and almost purple. If the fleece is left on, it is harder to see what is going on down there. It also is very hard for lambs to nurse, especially if the ewes are longwool breeds such as Romneys, Border Leicester, or Leicester Longwools.

These ewes are Columbias, the largest white faced sheep. As I was feeding them tonight, I checked them for lice. I did not see any, but I was ooooooing and ahhhhhhing over their fine, white fleeces.

Oh my gosh....where did he come from? Well .... that is what I said to my husband when he discovered this bunny in the basement last night. :)

My good friend Betty Stover gave him to me yesterday. If you are looking for a beautiful German Angora, you must talk to Betty of Spinnakees' Farm.

This beauty tentatively named Mellow Yellow by my daughter, is almost ready to be clipped. He will blend nicely with Alice, my grey Angora.

TGIF!!!

2009-01-16T09:30:00.003-05:00

Thankfully the week has come to an end here in freezing-cold Maine. Temps dropped on Tuesday night and continued to fall until we hit 21 below last night. Ole' Mom Nature was good enough to let the winds subside so that the comfort level was a bit better. The sheep take it in stride, but mt heart goes out to the chickens, ducks and ponies who must long for summer sun and warm breezes.

This week was the Maine Agricultural Show in Augusta. The turn out was incredible. We shared our Maine Sheep Breeders Association booth with the Wildlife Services folks. I enjoyed their company, but the poor men must have thought that my jaws were hinged in the middle. I talked to so many people for so long that I should not have a voice today. It is one of my favorite events to be a part of.

Sally made an appearance as well this year and thankfully her head stayed on throughout the many oooooooooohhhs and aaaaaaaaahhhs and touching. She is becoming a bit of a fixture at the Ag Show, as it was requested that she attend watch over our booth.

Udders are beginning to fill on Laverne and Shirley. Shirley seems to be in the lead, and a bit smaller belly-wise, although we know that that does not clue us into how many lambs have taken up residence in her womb. Poor Judy looks like and aircraft carrier a few weeks before she lambs, but always has average sized twins. I am happy to have given her a year off from having babies and nursing, she has grown beautiful fleece and has a healthy weight.

I took my wheel to the show as well, it was nice to spin again. My knitting phase has passed and I am ready to begin spinning up some beautiful hand-spun yarns for the shop this summer. I have a surprise fiber to add to the mix this year which should make for an interesting blend.

Hope you all are staying warm and dreaming of

spring...it isn't that far away!

Slow and Steady

2009-01-05T15:10:00.005-05:00

Today was a day of longing. After a cool start to the day, it warmed up enough for the snow to melt ... drip, drip, dripping off the roof. The sweet little birds who flitter and dance around the feeders all shook their heads in agreement when I told them I wish I could fill my window boxes with bright, colorful flowers, and herbs. My garden is blanketed with snow and ice, not a sign of life is left, not even a frozen stalk or seed pod survived the sheep who I allowed to graze down the remains of the season.

I am thankful for these days though, I scrubbed out all water buckets, raked up a bit, sat in the barn when the sun was warming the milk crate I sometimes use as a seat, and observed....

Observed what you ask??? Well ....it seems that my short little ram, stood on his tip toes sometime in early September and whispered sweet nothings in two of my ewes ears.

I saw a little "action" in the paddock and sort of laughed it off. I must admit it was a bit of an experiment to see if her could actually reach the tall girls. He is a determined little bugger... and I say MARVELOUS! They combination of fleece qualities should make for some lovely little lambs! The barn is ready, deeply bedded with straw and stalled off. Butts and bellies are sheared, now we wait ...slow and steady ...now we wait.

The North Wind Doth Blow....

2008-12-27T06:52:00.006-05:00

Do you remember that poem? The north wind doth blow and we shall have snow. And snow we did have.... tons of snow, and the wind blew the shingles off the barn, and the snow was waist deep from the snow plow, and the kids were excited!

The sheep stood in the doorway of the barn asking me to bring breakfast to them. "We can't possibly wade through this deep snow for food, can't you bring it to us??"

Santa-husband, who complained that he has shoveled snow for too many years, decided that he and his wife would shovel no longer, and arrived home with a shiny new snow blower, and promptly made paths for his wife to feed the sheep ....but not for the sheep to come to the feed.:)

I have been working hard to keep the hay from building up in the new sheep paddocks. Putting a pony or two in for clean up from time to time seems to be helpful ...at least while the ground is frozen. Too much hay piled up insulates the ground and keeps the snow and ice from melting in the spring.

While feeding yesterday I was looking over my empty, snow-covered, vegetable garden, dreaming about last year's harvest, designing this year's planting in my mind, and thinking about an expansion and maybe a new greenhouse. Oh how I miss those beautiful, fresh tomatoes. I finally found a source for Maine hydroponic-grown tomatoes, they will get me through the long winter, I can make my homemade salsa for my eggs again, and the basil, growing on my windowsill now has a use besides just looking pretty. Mmmmmmmmmmmm.

Luckily I still have several bags of a tomato sauce base that I made this fall from our tomatoes, peppers and onions, all sauteed in olive oil and then frozen in 4 cup increments in freezer bags. I was surprised how quickly we went through the bags. Jarred sauce tastes TERRIBLE after you have eaten fresh sauce all summer. I have used this base for chili, meatloaf, and pasta sauces ...I will plant more tomato plants next year.

Last year I was considering a few milk goats. There is nothing like fresh goat cheese, and my kids love the milk. I think I will research this as an additive to the farm for 2009. I have talked to many folks who currently raise and milk goats and their biggest advice to me so far is to be committed to my daily milkings.

Lots to think about for 2009. Lots to plan for...... now I am hungry.

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL ....

2008-12-24T12:18:00.001-05:00

...and to all a good night!

Thaw duck ... cook at 350 degrees for two hours

2008-12-19T16:36:00.004-05:00

Last week a new duck arrived at our farm. She had been found down by the river near Reed & Reed, the large crane and construction business. After agreeing over the phone to give her a home here, she was delivered and introduced to our three Pekins. My worry was that my girls would be mean to her, but the seemed uninterested in her and let her eat with them.

By late afternoon, I could not find her then ... ring ring ....the phone is full!

"Hi Kelly, it's your neighbor Tracy, I think one of your ducks is here ....sitting on the roof of my car! "

I zipped up to Tracy's and sure enough, the new duck was resting quietly on one of the roof racks of her car! When I walked over to pick her up, she flew away. I shrugged my shoulders and headed home. What more could I do?

The next morning, she was sitting on the roof of the duck and chicken shed a.k.a The Cluck & Duck Inn. Now, keep in mind, little fat Pekin Ducks cannot fly so this was all new to me. She made herself at home all day and then by night fall she was no where to be found.

This continued for a few days until one morning I noticed the cars driving by my house were slowing down. A quick head count of dogs and I was out the door. Sure enough, there she sat, in the middle of the road, caked in ice, on one foot, head in wing. I scooped her up and brought her in, lit the stove in the basement, and set her in a box by the fire. Oooooo the lengths I go to.....

The duck, now named Qu'vack ( remember Hagar the Horrible's duck ? ) spent last night in the Cluck & Duck last night for the first time. It did not stop her from going to the pond this morning and once again stopping traffic, but I think she might be starting to feel at home.

The dog ate my ... the goat ate my ... the guinea pig ate my ...

2008-12-10T15:12:00.003-05:00

Okay, when I was a kid, I had a rabbit, a cute little bunny that hopped around the kitchen and ate carrots and apples ...and every electrical cord it could find. My mother would remind me "Rabbits are rodents and rodents chew." Yep, rodents chew. Kuzco, our darling little guinea pig is a rodent ... rodents chew.

The vest I started over a year ago and finished, up to knitting the shoulder seams together, was left by Kuzco's cage ...rodents chew.

It was my fault, I knit in my Boston Rocker that sits beside my Mastiff's crate. On my Mastiff's crate sits Kuzco's cage. I spread projects out on top of the dog's crate, and apparently I set the vest close enough for Kuzco to reach ...rodents chew.

So, after the initial shock of the damage he had done, I feel as though I can fix it. The neckline, that I painstakingly knit in a seed stitch ssk-ing and Ktog-ing to create the perfect angles is now chewed, unraveled and fit for, well, a guinea pig's nest.

I have learned my lesson, I will listen to my mother ... rodents chew.

Trust

2008-12-08T17:11:00.005-05:00

I have owned several horses in my lifetime. Reluctantly I sold two of them to very nice homes after finally giving into not having enough time for them.

I was discussing with a friend the other day how neither one of us became what we thought we would be when we "grew up". I, had I had the courage, would have gone on to college to study architectecture and design, but I chose a different path that combined my love of art with my love of animals. If only I had known then what I know now, things might have been different.

Maybe I would have made my fortune as a home designer and had enough money to build my dream barn, with a heated tack room and an art studio in the loft. Oh well...my life is good, and working harder for the things I need in my opinion have made me a very determined, go-getter...oh yes and I am told stubborn.

I worked for a very fancy dressage stable for a while when I was younger. The horses were beautiful, yet so pampered that they were fragile. The ladies who came in to ride were perfect in every way. Fancy this, fancy that.... I left after a few months of trying to please people who had it all but were so unhappy with their lives.

I saw the other side of the horse world at a harness racing stable. The job started with caring for five horses, then at one point 18. They were sad souls, I saw it in their eyes. I can see in most animals, their happiness and their pain . I fret more over my animals than most folks, they are my other children ...I am their shepherdess.

The picture above is of our young pony L.T. He is just a year and a half, and I have watched his eyes soften as he has adjusted to living with us. His fear and caution have given away to curiosity and joy. He follows me around like a puppy, watching my every move, pulling things from my pockets, and stealing my tools. He and I go on long walks in the woods accompanied by three dogs. He pushes his head close to me when he is afraid. It is an amazing feeling to be so connected with this beautiful little creature.

First Snowfall

2008-12-07T15:09:00.007-05:00

I awoke this morning to the most beautiful snowfall. It must have started in the wee hours, as the fluff was less than an inch thick. It was that first frosting of the season, the now bare trees were outlined in white. The air smelled so fresh and clean, and there were "warm spots" in the paddock where each sheep had lay during the night.

I grabbed my camera as I headed out to do morning chores. The lighting is always perfect during snowfall. Please enjoy the new photos in my Flickr account by clicking on the badge to the right. I am sure I will be adding more in a few days.

It was a busy/lazy day. The temps were mild, so I was able to fill water buckets from the outside spicket. No need to shovel since this storm was only a dusting.

Three very desperate-to-sled kids spent the morning trying to find enough snow to glide gracefully over. They did manage to make a few runs in a mixed snow/leaf covered path.

I have learned over the years to get my winter chores done early, before that first snow falls especially raking up leaves and hay where I will eventually be shoveling. Yesterday I located all of the snow shovels, found a bucket of salt, and pounded in a few stakes where the fence seemed like it could use a little extra strength...well the truth to the fence story goes like this.

Four days ago I moved two ewes from the front paddock, leaving my ram, Joker, with the two ponies.

Three days ago finished the "Hill" paddock and decided to bring the ponies up to enjoy the dry ground and more room to run during the day. I brought Joker some grain and hay to keep him occupied while the ponies were away ...which left him all alone ..... of course he broke out.

Two days ago I was sitting at the table helping my son with his homework, when I happened to look up in time to see Joker smashing through a new spot in the old fence.

One day ago I mucked out the pony's run in and Joker's shelter, anticipating today's storm ....the newly smashed in section of the old fence was now newly patched and replaced for the winter, but seeing the look of desire in his eyes I decided to reinforce my patch job. A new fence will go on the list of things to do come spring...as well as a ram pen for my very strong little love-muffin.

Tonight the snow has stopped falling. Aside from the sound of the snowplows, it is silent and cozy. The knitting I had planned to work on is waiting for me. I knit to the thumb on my second fingerless mitten last night while enjoying good friends and a bottle of Merlot.

Tomorrow brings yarn and calendar orders to be mailed out, finishing up a design job, and shopping for a new pair of boots for my Sam who grew considerably during the summer.

But for now I am enjoying the peace.

Monday, Monday ...so good to me.....

2008-12-01T12:51:00.006-05:00

This will be a very long post ....here we go.

I will start by saying that Thanksgiving for us was wonderful. The weather was mild, our good friends invited us for a fabulous dinner, then tea and pie, topped off with a walk down their long field with kids on ponies, in strollers and running in the muck. What more could you ask for!

For the past two days, the kids and I have been fencing winter paddocks for our ponies and sheep up on the hill. When we cleared four more acres for the paddocks last spring, I had envisioned the fencing complete by August....hehehehe someday I'll figure out that I cannot estimate weights and times correctly. BUT .... the mild days we were blessed with allowed me to drive in a few stakes and run the electric wire without any trouble.

We also cleared the path for our super-fast-high-speed-dangerous-poop-your-pants sled run. ( the kids named it ) as well as the incredibly-slow-boring-mom-said-its-safer bunny slope. Aside from a few stumps that might get in the way, it should be a lot of fun!

As for knitting, I have finished one very large stocking which will be embellished this week, one fingerless mitten that started out as a Christmas ornament ( don't ask), and I finally decided to finish my vest that I started ....ohhhhh, I think maybe a year ago. Now I am anxious to start the sweater I designed this fall. The second fingerless mitten is in the works, but I like to save projects like that for times when I can knit without thinking like waiting at the dentist, ball games and such.

Today is as usual Catchupmonday. I have been paying bills, mailing out calendar and yarn orders, cleaning ( yuck) and making a super huge Turkey soup. Since the weather turned snowy/rainy/sleety/cold, and I managed to get all of my outside chores done over the past few days, I am happy to be "house bound" with catch up tasks.

One last thing....to my dear Patriots ... if I can carry two five gallon pails of water down stairs, across an icy driveway,and up a slippery hill, in a snow/sleet storm, and NOT drop them, YOU my dear Patriots, YOU should be able to catch a ball....thats all! :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T07:20:00.005-05:00

This is how I plan to spend my afternoon today....this is MY chair after all. After eating my fill and more, I plan to sink into MY soft chair for an afternoon of movie watching with friends and family.

MY chair ....hmmmmmm. I wonder if Matilda will ever get it into her very large head that is is MY chair. She crams her very large body into this chair, that is much to small for her, then looks at me like a little lost creature who has finally found a home. I am such a push over.

I am thankful for her, for all of my dogs, for my kids who flop on the dogs, who pile up on the couch on a cold winter day. I am thankful for my husband who works every Thanksgiving Day and happily eats leftovers when he comes home. I am thankful for my family, my life and my freedom. Happy Thanksgiving.

BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

2008-11-22T09:44:00.004-05:00

BRRRRRRRRRRRRR! Where did this cold come from all of a sudden??

Seems like lately I spend more time thawing my butt out in front of the heater than getting anything accomplished! I have come to the conclusion, that fat does not retain heat...only blubber. I am beginning to wish I could trade my fat for some blubber! Enough about being cold ... I love the change! I like cozing up in my house, in the barn, in my new studio. Ahhhhhh, more tea drinking, pie, hot chocolate, pie, yes you get the picture. :) ....and were does that fat on my butt come from??

The sheep don't seem to mind the cold. They could be in the deeply bedded barn that I took time to make for them, but the prefer to be outside in the cold wind, in the middle of the paddock. Guess I wouldn't mind if I had on wool underwear, leg warmers, sweaters, hats and scarves.

I guess my only complaint is dealing with frozen water buckets. Over the years I have filled water buckets in the kitchen sink and then have made three to four daily treks to the paddocks to freshen water. It is a heck of a job, but I will never allow my animals to go without water. I have seen neglected animals drink and drink when they have been denied fresh water...it breaks my heart. It is also very important for pregnant ewes to always have fresh water available.

I am finding now that my elbows are beginning to show the signs of over use. I carry two full 5 gallon pails at a time ... it balances me. But it looks like I will be carrying less and making more treks. I friend suggested that I use gas cans and wheel them in my wheelbarrow I think that is a great idea. My husband promises me that I will have a snow blower this year as well. Last winter was brutal, and even though I would have rather had water piped to the barn, I'll take what I can get! :)

They're Here!!

2008-11-17T16:51:00.004-05:00

The UPS Man, grateful that my husband graded the driveway yesterday, motored his big ole' brown van up my driveway today and handed me a the big ole' box I have been waiting for. CALENDARS!

If you have ordered yours already, then I send you a gigantic MUCHAS GRACIAS ....and your calendars will be in the mail tomorrow. :)

Here is Belle as Miss August.

Look At This!

2008-11-16T07:53:00.003-05:00

Look at his scary picture that I just found!! Hard to think about snow when I just watered and fed this morning in my shirtsleeves!

If I remember correctly, last year we received, from the overly generous snow gods, 92 inches of snow. I believe in total, I shoveled a good 6 acres of snow ... well it felt as though I did. It may have seemed like a rough winter at the time, but looking back, it was a great winter.

I am one of those strange people who likes snow. I love sledding, I love the magic of a snow storm. I love to stand on the deck in during a snowfall and listen to the silence. And I looooooove snow on my sheep!

Now that the garden has been "put to bed", I am hoping for colder temps. I planted garlic in late October and I am hoping the ground will soon freeze so that my bulbs will not rot. With temperatures in the 50s they could even sprout!

Today I will be back in the basement setting up my new studio. After a few years of thinking about creating this space, I am making it happen. It will be so nice to be able to set up and leave projects until they are finished. It also will be nice to take my bedroom back!

Welcome Sprout

2008-11-10T13:31:00.003-05:00

My trip to New York was fun, but also very educational. I was able to see breeds I am familiar with looking quite different than some of the lines here in the northeast. All sheep are beautiful if you ask me, but I eye is aways caught by the stocky, stout, old-style Romney.

I am very happy to have just purchased, Sprout, a beautiful Romney ewe from Louise and Stephen Hessert of Pleasant Valley Farm, here in Cumberland, Maine.

I have drooled over their beautiful Romneys for a few years now, and now am a very proud owner of one. Yesterday I brought Sprout home to our farm to live. This feels like a big step for me. As my old wether Joe ages, I have feared that I would not be able to find another like him. He is the old-style type as well, and his image was in a dream I had of the sheep that would graze the ridge behind my house. His fleece has always been a dream to spin and his disposition, a classic sweet Romney.

Sprout is much like Joe. The Hesserts were kind enough to breed Sprout to their handsome Guy Noir, a gorgeous ram, before she came to us. I am in heaven dreaming of those big, beautiful Romney lambs I will have in the spring!

Katie

2008-11-03T15:33:00.004-05:00

Look at this face. Couldn't you just eat it up?!! I have been trying to get a good photo of Katie for quite sometime, but every time I try she comes running up to me and is too close for a nice picture of her beautiful little face. Today I was sneaky. I let all of the sheep out into the new paddock, then walked behind the barn. They thought I was gone. Then I stepped into the paddock and click-click-click! Got her! Of course after I got this shot, she was practically in my lap. She still loves to be held ... and I can never refuse her. :)

Flattery?

2008-10-30T19:28:00.004-05:00

I used to think that the person who invented black licorice was the most brilliant person on earth. My father in-law once brought me black licorice from Iceland ( although I would have preferred an Icelandic pony ). It was strong, unique and delicious! Although my tastes have changed over the years, my mouth always waters when I think of that package that only lasted about a week. :)

Not many folks like the strong flavor of black licorice. It has a uniqueness all of it's own. I like that. I'd like to think that I have that too. I hate copy-cats.

When you work hard to create your own image, when you express yourself as you, when you are honest, true and sincere about the life you have chosen, when you take pride in what you create. It is very hard to watch people copy you. This has been happening to me for a long time. A person, who even has the same first name as me, continues to be unable to have the creativity to be herself.

If imitation is the highest form of flattery, then why does this make me ill. I'll tell you why. Because I would be embarrassed if anyone confused me with her.

So I, in an effort to remain uniquely me, I will change my blog background and layout that I chose two years ago, since she has now taken as well. I am sure that she will continue to steal my image, my style and worst of all my words ..... I am NOT her ... just me, someone she could never be.

I LOVE N.Y.!

2008-10-23T05:01:00.002-05:00

Whew! What a whirlwind of tasks and trips, and you name it over the past week. I left for Rhienbeck N.Y. last Friday, to judge fleeces at the New Youk Sheep and Wool Festival. I have to say, it was a good thing I did not take a trailer, as I would have come home with a few new additions! What beautiful Romneys! I did gather up a few business cards and will be contacting a few folks for some possible new lines in the spring.

My favorite fella at the show was a giant Rambouilett ram named Lucky. The kind gentleman that owned him was also a favorite of mine. Both of them were gentle giants. The sweet man who truly loved his sheep, was over six feet with a gentle hand, and it was evident that his demeanor was appreciated by his sheep. They too were calm and relaxed. I love folks like that! Kindness is so admirable.

I was quite well behaved with my spending. I was drawn to a handwoven African basket when I arrived. It was a one-of-a-kind that I had to have ...it is half full of yarn already! So funny to go to a place that sells such beautiful yarn and not need to buy any. I did though .... some beautiful mohair/cormo lamb . :)

I have to toot my own horn . My felted farm sign took First Place in the Felted category at the fleece competition. It is Joe, made from Joe. I needle felted his beautiful silver locks to make his body and then used Babydoll for his face. The white border and lettering is Judy, my Suffolk.

2009 Calendars

2008-10-15T07:09:00.002-05:00

Well .... they are off to the printers! They were a delight to put together this year. I have included some of the older girls as well as some of the new. Oh, yes, and after many "Why isn't Romeo in your calendar?" inquiries ...he is Mr. December! :)

Take a look http://www.romneyridgefarm.com/

Done Atlast!

2008-10-08T11:37:00.002-05:00

My head feels like it might explode at any minute. My kids brought me a nasty head cold. Is that fair to blame them? Seems like the second school starts for the year, one of them is sniffling and snuffling. So yes, I blame the germ magnets. :)

Being sick forces me to finish projects. The poncho I have been knitting for a quarter century ... okay that's a bit of an exaggeration ... was finally finished last night. I brought a few unfinished projects out to the couch this morning, planning to work on them, but the beautiful day called to me and I went up to the barn. I raked, and coughed, and sneezed, and scratched a few heads, fixed a door hinge, sneezed some more, was stung by a hornet, fed the rabbits, then decided to come in for some tea.

I am wrapped in my beautiful, super warm poncho, pleased with myself for not laying on the couch all day. :) Now I should take out my spinning wheel, but my head feels clearer outside, and I have a pony to train. Hopefully tomorrow I will feel more like myself.

New Life

2008-10-05T06:42:00.002-05:00

Friday one of our silkie hens hatched three eggs. By late afternoon we had four little black chicks and two eggs. By Sat morning we had four little black chicks and one little brown speckled chick. This morning that one egg still remains unhatched, yet that mother hen guards it with her life.

I think eggs are one of the most amazing things. A gooey, slimy mass can become life. A miracle? Science? Who knows. All life is a miracle if you ask me.

I brought home a pony this week. He is only a yearling, full of life and curiosity. When I walked him into the paddock, our old pony was very curious. They touched noses and squealed, they pawed the ground and then ....she walked away and rejoined the sheep. If ponies could cry I think he would have. His little face, that still has a baby look, looked confused and he rubbed his head against my arm. I comforted him and brought Romeo into keep him company while he adjusted to his new surroundings. He is new life on our farm. He will not be lonely with three kids who can't keep their hands off him. :) In a few days I will put both ponies together in a new paddock. He is recovering from being castrated so he needs to remain calm. I think he will be good for her and they will become good friends. I am not sure he will convince her though that she really isn't a sheep.

Fall Chores

2008-09-30T07:26:00.005-05:00

It is a dreary week. Thanlfully the changing leaves brighten it up around here. Last week we finished the new roof on the barn, and within hours it began to rain ... and rain ... and rain... Evey sheep and the pony were cozied into the fresh straw bedding where they stayed for a few days. The ground has become much like mud season again and I prefer to keep their feet dry.

Yesterday I worked in the garden again, cleaning up the long vines from the acorn squash. One vine had "snaked" around the backside of the compost pile. I followed it to the end and found four more squash! Two of them were a little squishy, so I smashed them and fed them to the sheep. It was good to get outside and work as I had been on the computer most of the morning finishing the last pages of my 2009 calendar. I'll post some pics of the pages on my website today.

Hardly a day goes by that I don't see perfect photos to take. Yesterday I carried my camera around as I worked outside. After filling the garden cart with vines, I sat down with Katie and Sam. It is nearly impossible to take a picture of Katie as she immediately wants to crawl into my lap. I put a chair in the paddock and kept to one side of it and finally got a shot of her. She is a porky little girl. enjoying very little competition for food in the back paddock.

Her fleece, as well as Sam's is gorgeous! Little tight curls on top of a crimpy, dense, lofty fleece. I will make something special for myself from these special little sheep.

Bad Goat ...Bad, Bad Goat!

2008-09-16T18:38:00.003-05:00

Let's take a moment and talk about boundaries. When I used to work with horses, I was always taught "Your space...my space." The horse stays in it's space and never crosses into my space. Romeo is extremely smart. He knows his name, he can open gates, he is very social .... but why ... why can he not understand "your space ... my space"? No, to him its "what's mine is yours and what's yours is mine " ....mi casa su casa .

This is where I found him today. I was working in the garden, sweating, raking, pulling weeds, cleaning out expired plants. And here he sat watching me, chewing his cud.

There he was, the King of His Castle. King of the Mountain ...King of my heart.

Summer Comes To An End

2008-09-12T17:10:00.003-05:00

Today I gave in to mom-nature and admitted .... summer is over. The garden is just about done for the season. It was bountiful to say the least. My friend Pam came over this morning and helped harvest the last of the acorn squash, cukes and lettuce. There were still a few green tomatoes, peppers and beets I decided to give a little longer to ripen. We have avoided the frost so far, but our neighbors to the north in the mountains and valleys got a touch last night.

Yesterday I walked up on the newly cleared land accompanied by 19 sheep and two goats. As we reached the top of the hill, they dispersed and began eating everything green in sight. I always dreamed of a vast field for them, but the rocky hill surrounded by woods is so beautiful. And they are beautiful. It causes me to waste time when I go on walks with them. I left Joker and two ewes behind, as well as three lambs. I could hear them calling and felt bad, but the nights are cool and he is anxious for " a piece of the girls". He may have already bred the two Columbias. A bit early, but I expect they will be quite hardy babies and we can let them lamb in the barn. Ohhhhhh ......I am thinking about babies already! :)

Color! Color!! Crazy Color!!!

2008-09-04T14:51:00.003-05:00

White beckons me to change it. White is beautiful ... in the winter....on a sheep... on a ice cream cone covered with chocolate ... well you get the picture. White wool, white roving, white yarn ... now that needs a little help from me.

I like to try different colors that you would never imagine blending together. Reds, pinks, browns, purples ....oh I just go nuts!

This past week, I have had several lovely ladies visit my shop and take their time choosing colors. It is so fun to see what colors they mix together. Some lay skeins side by side, then change their position until they see what they have envisioned the yarn to be. Some pick shades of the same color, and some just pile colors on the counter and when I ask what they will make, they smile and say ... "I have no idea!". I love it! One lady told me the yarn tells her what to make it into when she gets it home! I believe that is true. I really liked her, she did not laugh when I told her that Romeo talks to me.... It's true you know.

Okay .... off to spin this crazy roving. :)

Tomato pie ... tomato sauce... tomato slasa ...tomato jam...

2008-08-24T17:00:00.004-05:00

Okay, that last post makes me sound a little mad that so many folks love my little Katie. I sounded a little selfish .... sooooooo I will gladly share her with visitors, just remember she stays here when you leave! :):)

Speaking of sharing ... take a look at all the tomatoes I have been blessed with! I have shared quite a few ( eaten quite a few more ) as "off the vine", in salsa, tomato jam, and today a marinara sauce. I'd love some new ideas as to what I can make with these tasty beauties. I also have quite a bountiful crop of cukes. They have been sliced and eaten in vinegar by all of my kids. Seems to be their favorite way to eat them and no one has complained yet.

So for those of you who wonder who won The Goat vs. Human Garden Battle of 2008 ... I think I can safely say MEEEEE!!!!!! Sorry Romeo. ;)

Katie Kisses

2008-08-23T06:55:00.002-05:00

If I was offered a lifetime supply of New York style cheesecake, with cherry topping, that contained no calories and would not make my behind expand any wider....or a brand new motor yacht with room for 20, a personal chef and jacuzzi on the stern ....or a trip to New Zealand where I would ride horseback into the outback with a handsome tour guide and gather up all the Merino sheep I wanted to bring home .... if I was offered all of these things in trade for Katie I would not take them.

So if you come to visit, remember Katie is not for sale. Many, many visitors who have met my sheep this summer have fallen in love with her. Many, many visitors have offered to buy her....and many, many times I have said no. Kaite is here to stay. She greets me every morning and all throughout the day with kisses. She is a beautiful spirit who delights my family and I am completely in love with her.

Katie is ours...Kaite is not for sale.

Crispy!!!

2008-08-20T06:51:00.003-05:00

How nice it was to pull on a sweatshirt this morning as I headed out to the barn to feed the "kids". If these cool nights continue, I may have to move Joker to his bachelor pad early. Currently he resides with Laverne and Shirley, our Columbia ewes in the front paddock.

Yesterday I spent some time in the shop, tagging some freshly dyed yarns. My attention however was drawn to Joker as he pursued Laverne while singing her a love song. I swear if he had a guitar, he'd have played her a sweet serenade! Laverne however was not interested and finally lay down in the shed. Poor Joker! :)

Thanks Ravelry Gals!

2008-08-16T19:36:00.004-05:00

Today I had a lovely visit from a group of fellow Ravelry girls. After touring the farm, meeting my beloved woollies, and enjoying some tasty treats, we sat, talked and knit ...what more could you ask for? It was a little hot for my liking, but at least it wasn't raining! Max, my dog, was so pleased with all of the attention and love he received.

After everyone headed home, I let Romeo out ( though he did make a brief appearance earlier and got a little too pushy ) he was more than willing to help me clean up ... well maybe a little to willing.

Thanks for a great day ladies! Hope to see you all again soon!

August Already???

2008-08-12T15:34:00.004-05:00

How did that happen! :)

Our Annual Open House went very well last weekend. We collected lots of dog and cat food as well as $ for the Lincoln County Animal Shelter. Thank you to everyone who donated.

This week has started out as a wash, but ( dare I say it?) the sun is peeking out from time to time after a morning of heavy, steady rain. When I went up tot he barn to feed this morning, I was glad to be the wise -woman who built her barn on the rock. The water was flowing like a river all around, but everyone was safe and dry inside. The outside is another matter. Mud, mud, mud...need I say more. Hopefully the ground will absorb the new rainfall before this weekend.

I did manage to pick many ripe tomatoes before the rain came, as well as acorn squash and cukes. I plan to make my favorite tomato pie this weekend. The squash I eat for breakfast!

Got some more dyeing done this morning while it rained, now the skeins are drying on the deck.

Sheep are in the pasture, dogs are at my feet, kids are at camp... I am headed for some tea and a quick break before I go and pick them up. Time to look over the building plans for the new shop & studio. Today I picked out the windows and paint...looks like we will begin soon, our builder assures me he can be done in one week!

Hairspray

2008-07-25T05:46:00.002-05:00

Last night my husband was watching Hairspray while I was skeining yarn. I guess it must have inspired him as he created this beautiful beehive for Pirate! If you have not seen the movie....I highly recommend it! The music is great, the singing and dancing is superb! My only complaint is, I cannot get the songs out of my head when I try to go to sleep!

Cinderella

2008-07-22T07:17:00.002-05:00

Since last Friday, the rain has been falling. It sneaks up when we are working outside, it falls fast a furious and creates rivers running off the hill, it makes mud and deep puddles that leak into my boots....but it does give us blessings. Blessings of beauty. My pumpkin and squash plants have been growing slowly, but now with all the rain, they are about to take over my house! Please enjoy these pictures. I just find Mother Nature so beautiful.

Don't let the dogs on the new what????

2008-07-18T07:05:00.002-05:00

After 5 years of babies and milk, toddlers who spill everything, and puppies who like to chew, my husband and I felt it was okay to buy an new couch.....I remember him saying something about not letting the dogs get to comfortable.....