Latest Posts
Ode To a Vermont Shepherd and Her Sugar Maker
Twas the day before sugaring, When all through the woods, Not a maple was left standing without a spout or a hood. The buckets were hung round the maples with care, In hopes that springtime soon would be there. All over town, sugar makers nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of evaporators whistled in their heads. At Grand … Read More
Recognizing the Different Stages of a Laboring Ewe
For ten years, I had the privilege of working with young expectant mothers and fathers. I taught them about the birthing process, what to expect, and how to work alongside of their bodies to bring forth new life. Now, I work with bred ewes, but there is nothing to teach them, as it all comes instinctively. Knowing what “normal” labor … Read More
Maple Sugaring – A Vermont Tradition
Winter loosened her grip early this year, bringing sugar makers out from the warmth of their homes and into the woods to begin maple sugaring – a Vermont tradition. Steam now rises from sugar houses that dot the valleys as sugar makers, large and small, tend their fires. The warmer spring temperatures persuade the sugar maple trees to convert stored … Read More
Manure Management on Small Farms
Manure management can be daunting on any size farm, even small farms. The state of Vermont has taken a serious interest in the impact agriculture and manure management has on water quality. In late 2016, the department of Agriculture, published RAPs, Required Agricultural Practices for farms of all sizes. These standards are intended to improve the quality of Vermont’s waters … Read More
Three Tips for Successful Felting with Curly Locks
I’ve been busy felting with our Gotland and Border Leicester curls. I thought I would share a few tips for successful felting with curly locks. Tips for Successful Felting with Curly Locks I lay a fine wool base of merino underneath my curls. You could use other fine wools, but I prefer using merino for felted garments. You can either … Read More