Latest Posts
Dandelions, Lambs and Grazing~Transitioning to Pasture
Dandelion blossoms fill the field across the road, leaving yellow faces on our Romney and Gotland sheep. In the early spring, we use this field to reintroduce the sheep to grazing after the long winter of eating hay. It takes about two weeks of going back and forth from the barn to the field, eating the lush grass a little … Read More
Needle Felting Soothes the Soul
Amidst the many spring chores that needed tending to, my daughter and I crept away to the New Hampshire Sheep and Wool Festival a couple weekends ago. I had not been to that festival in several years, and my husband was game to tackle the “to do” list on his own for a day. My daughter and I spent our … Read More
The Grand View Farm Shepherd’s Gansey
It all began with a good book, a book about fishermen and wool sweaters. My husband was next in line for a handknit sweater. He had patiently watched me as I knit shawls, vests, cardigans, hats and mittens for other people. I saw the longing in his eye, that look of “is it my turn yet”. A little more than … Read More
Ask the Shepherd~Livestock Guardian Dogs with Hannah Smith
Part II~Protecting Your Flock-LGDs In my first post about guard animals for livestock, we explored protecting your flock of sheep with the use of miniature donkeys. Today, I have asked Hannah Smith of Vinegar Ridge Farm to talk with us about LGDs or Livestock Guardian Dogs. I first met the Smith family at the Vermont Sheep and Wool Festival about 11 … Read More
Ask the Shepherd ~ Guardian Donkeys
Throughout the years, I have had many people ask me questions about guardian animals for their flock of sheep. Guardian donkeys make excellent guards against outside predators. Today, I have invited Jennifer King of the Sachem Farm in Connecticut to talk with us about her guard donkey, Georgia. Tell us a little about your farm and flock of sheep. I live … Read More