Rural Route Post

Michigan Fiber Festival

2010-09-04T21:33:00.000-05:00

This little guy Really wanted to come home with me! It's a good thing I took my car and not the truck! The Pygora Goat was featured at the Michigan Fiber Festival this year and boy are they cute. But alas, I believe I will stick with my little Shetlands and Laverne and Shirley (my 2 Merino ewes).
This was my first year to go to the MFF and probably my last. Not because it wasn't loads of fun with Lots and Lots of vendors but it was just too far to travel....even for fiber! My goal was to buy a new spinning wheel. I have a spinning wheel but I got that bug...you know the one...I need a new wheel...a better wheel...a wheel with more bells and whistles....a wheel that will make me a better spinner....that wheel. So....lots of dealers to choose from at the MFF. A Jensen dealer was there. I can hear you saying, "Uh-Oh". That is exactly right...uh-oh. They were BEAUTIFUL..they were all stained and gorgeous and I spun on one...big mistake. I did not budget for a Jensen. I'm thinking, "I cannot spend that much money on a wheel...just walk away...just walk away" I bought it. I bought the Tina Traveler. I walked it to my car. I spent 30 minutes making sure I put it in the car in such a way that it would be safe. I get back to my hotel and I'm getting it out because my friend and I are going to SPIN that evening on my new wheel. I set it on the ground and I see a huge scratch on that beautiful walnut wheel! How in the world did that happen?..I haven't had this wheel 2 hours and I've ruined it!! I want to cry. I start looking in my stupid car trying to figure out the culprit that caused the damage. Nothing...there is nothing. To make a long story short..the scratch was already on the wheel when I bought it and the dealer was wonderful and took it back with no problems whatsoever. They thought it was a split in a knot hole and it may have been, but all I saw was a scratch, so I returned it. Unfortunately, they did not have more.

This is a Canadian Production wheel that I ended up buying from a friend of mine. It is probably from around 1880-1900 but it spins like a dream and I think it looks like a piece of art! When I got home, I had this waiting on me..

12 bags of Shetland roving and 2 bags of Merino. It's like Christmas!! I have to give a shout out to Frankenmuth Woolen Mill in Michigan. They do an absolutely fantastic job of getting the fleeces clean and the roving is wonderful. I am going to try to sell some of the roving in the yarn shop I frequent and I came up with this as a packaging idea.

I took a picture of the sheep whose fleece was on display (this was a combined fleece of Laverne and Shirley) and added my farm name and one of my favorite verses..."for He is our God and we are the people of his pasture, the flock under His care." Psalm 95:7. We'll see how it goes.

New Sheep

2010-07-07T15:38:00.000-05:00

We have 3 new additions to the farm. Only two are shown for now. The little ram lamb I bought (an emsket kat) is more interested in having his chin scratched than in having his picture taken. I could not get him far enough away from me to get a decent picture and finally gave up. The little girl above is a mioget ewe lamb. She let me touch her today for the first time so we are making progress.

This little ewe lamb is grey with a beautiful mixture of dark and light grey spots on her. They all came from Under The Son Farm in Indiana. We brought them home about a week ago and they have settled in nicely. My son (with his driving permit) drove me the two hours, so we had a nice long lesson as well. I was amazed at all the beautiful sheep and their fleeces. She showed me her beautiful keeper lambs as well. I am thankful there are such dedicated breeders out there producing these wonderful sheep and breeding for great conformation, great fleeces and and great personalities. She was a wealth of information as well and helped me pick out lambs that will help me reach my breeding goals.

What a fun day!

2010-06-23T20:20:00.001-05:00

I had so much fun today at a dyeing class at my favorite yarn shop. It's my favorite for many reasons but the best reason would have to be the people. When I moved here 13 years ago, I really didn't know anyone who shared my love of all things wool. People would say, "You have sheep? Really? Interesting." Nobody really "got" me and it was so frustrating not having anyone to talk when I bought my loom and then my spinning wheel. It wasn't until about 3 years ago I found this wonderful place where the people did not look at me like I was some kind of freak when I explained that I just spent the day trying to over dye a beautiful gray Shetland fleece. I also love these people because we do a Bible study together every Monday and that has been such a blessing to me.

Today we did a dyeing class of both spun yarn and roving. I have experimented some with dyeing but it was great getting together and hearing so many great ideas and just plain experience that these ladies have. You can't get that from a "how to" article.

This yarn turned out much prettier than the picture shows. She did a technique I had never seen. She placed the yarn in the pan with the dye mixture in the bottom then sprinkled dry dye over the top and sprayed it with a water bottle. It is a really nice mixture of purples and green. I would have never picked these colors personally but it turned out nice. I really don't understand why, but I don't like purple yarn, I don't buy purple clothes. I do, however love the movie The Color Purple!

My favorite was dyeing the roving. We had 7 colors in mason jars and we dipped the roving in 3 colors at a time, then rotated them after about 10 minutes. We had some really cool combinations!

Here are the finished products. She recommended dividing the roving in half to make the sections of colors shorter.

I can't wait for it to dry so I can see what it looks like spun. I think I might dye some more roving one solid color to ply with. I'm afraid it might look funny otherwise but maybe not. I may just try both ways!

The beginnings of a coop

2010-06-11T16:00:00.000-05:00

It's amazing what you can create from stuff you already have lying around the farm. Granted, I was starting out with an existing "sheep shed" My husband built me these little sheds for pastures that don't have access to our barn several years ago. They have really come in handy and now one of them will become a chicken coop!

I still have quite a few fencing issues to deal with but I just couldn't believe what a difference a coat of paint and a new front door made! We also cut circulation vents in the back of the shed and covered them with mesh screens. Not quite ready for chickens yet but getting close.

Project Overload!!

2010-05-10T10:03:00.000-05:00

I decided to clean out my basket that sits beside my chair in the living room. You know the one, the one with all those projects in it. I couldn't believe how many unfinished projects were in just that basket! I thought maybe if I posted them here it would inspire me to start picking them off one by one. Of course that means no more trips to the yarn store for awhile and we know that ain't gonna happen! I think I took an article I once read too literally. It said if inspiration strikes, don't put it off..start that next project. I think they must have been trying to sell yarn...it worked!

Here is a summer top that I have 1 side finished. I am most inspired to finish it first with summer approaching. It makes me think of a warm sunny day and a trip to someplace with a white sandy beach and tall tropical drinks.

This is one of those blocks of the month projects. I've kept up pretty well until this month. I have the next block class this week and as you can see this is not quite finished.

A gray cardigan I started at the end of winter this year. It is going to be lovely, but not high on the priority list. It probably wont get picked up again until the Fall.

This is a Babies and Bears jacket I am making for my mom for Christmas so I have awhile. Again, I have it half finished.

Here are half of my daughter's boxer shorts. Yes, I said boxer shorts. Never heard of anyone knitting boxer shorts? Me either. I told my friend who owns the yarn shop that if I ever came in to buy yarn to make more boxer shorts to please refuse to sell it to me.

Mohair...what can I say about mohair. I'm not a fan. Unfortunately, I didn't figure that out before I started this project. It is suppose to be a long sleeve shirt basically. I really don't know if I will be able to make myself finish this one. What can I say, I'm just a wool girl I guess.

Orange helmet liner for my dad for Christmas..last year. Maybe I can get it done before this Christmas!

A log cabin blanket I started because I have so much Eco Wool left over from an afghan I actually did finish. No hurry on this.

This is a top I started for my daughter and really only have to sew up the sides and weave in the ends. I think I am going to rip the neck out and do it with a different yarn. I used yarn I already had and not what the pattern called for and of course the stupid pattern was right! Redo!

Well, that is about all..there are probably more lurking in the basement or in my laundry room but I'm not going to search for them yet. I'm wondering if maybe this is a sickness! OK, I'm inspired to finish something now!

Good News

2010-05-05T20:38:00.003-05:00

We had one of those fast and furious storms blow through yesterday afternoon. I love it when you can see the whole rainbow. They are so beautiful. Even though we are all familiar with this scripture, I thought it would make a great selection for this week's Good News.
Genesis 9: 12-16

And God said, "This is the sign of the covenant I am making between me and you and every living creature with you, a covenant for all generations to come; I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth. Whenever I bring clouds over the earth and the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Never again will the waters become a flood to destroy all life. Whenever the rainbow appears in the clouds, I will see it and remember the everlasting covenant between God and all living creatures of every kind on the earth."

Spinning Woes

2010-05-01T16:17:00.009-05:00

I finally got around to spinning some of my wool from Laverne and Shirley (my Merinos). It is soooooo soft. This is only the first spool from 2 gigantic bags of roving I have in my basement. I still can't get over how much roving I got from 2 sheep! And this is still last years wool so I have that much again in the garage waiting to be sent off.

I have had problems with my wheel not taking the roving and it shows in one of the strands here. It just doesn't have the twist it should. Everyone at my spinning group has looked at my wheel but none of us seem to be able to get it working right. I think I will hold off spinning more until I can figure something out because I'm not very happy with the results and I really want to make this sweater. It is a pattern from Made in Brooklyn by Jared Flood. Aww.....so much roving.....so little time.

It's hard being three

2010-04-30T09:33:00.005-05:00

It has always been hard to find someone to shear my sheep. They have to drive 1 1/2 - 2 hours to get here and I only had 15-20 sheep. Well, imagine how hard it is to find somebody to come for only 3 sheep! The word impossible comes to mind. I would have just sheared them myself but my clippers are not working. That is actually a bit of an understatement. They go flying into about 8 pieces every time I turn them on. Luckily, I found a family about 40 miles away who had a shearer coming to their farm this week. So, we loaded into the goat tote and with a great sigh of relief, got the job done. I was feeling a bit guilty about how crowded they were until I put them back in the tote to come home.

Plenty of room now! I love this little tote. It is just perfect for a few sheep. I had to take my son to school with the sheep in tow. Lucky for him, I couldn't maneuver thru the school traffic and had to let him off down the road a bit. They say it's hard to look cool with sheep in your back seat!

Here is Lucy.....kind of guarding the sheep. You might remember I had trouble with her hurting the lambs. She has been permanently removed from the pastures. She roams the yard and about 2 square miles around our house. She digs under any fence, walks right thru our electric fence and so I gave up. It is actually working out great. I still have a great guard dog and she gets to roam the open range!

Wag More....Bark Less

2010-04-26T09:26:00.006-05:00

Haven't introduced Hattie to the blog yet. She is about 6 months old and wow did I forget what it is like to have a puppy in the house! What a handful, it's like having a small child again! Now that she is settled in I have been thinking it would be great to add some chickens to the farm. Not a lot, just 5-6 hens. I don't know why my husband and son looked at me like I had a third eye when I shared this idea with them....they asked "What's next?" I guess I thought that was a serious question, so I answered " Well, since you asked, I would love to get a hive of bees." Now that I think about it, I should have waited and broke that news after the chicken thing gets settled!

Here is Hattie as a puppy sporting her favorite team jersey!

Back in the saddle

2010-04-24T15:55:00.009-05:00

Well, it's been a long time since I've even logged into my old blog or anyone else's for that matter. I sure have missed it. I think the tipping point was not having any little lambs of my own this year. I had to get my fix somehow, so I logged onto my old favorite blogs as well as a few new ones I found and soaked it all in.
I had to change the name of my blog at least to Pinewood Shetland (singular) or something totally new. I only have the one lonely Shetland and my 2 Merino ewes. I decided since it has been so long, I would just start fresh with a new name.
I hope to renew some old acquaintances as well as make a few new ones.

Laverne says "Here she goes with the pictures again! At least give me a hair cut first!"

Verse and more projects

2008-11-20T14:37:00.004-06:00

I've been making these mini ornaments for a friend of mine. She lost all her Christmas ornaments in the flood we had back in the summer. I felt so bad for her because she lost things that meant a lot to her. I hope she likes these. I'm going to try to make mittens and maybe a sock also to complete the set.

I promised a picture of my sweater so here it is. It is hard to see the pattern clearly but it has cables and seed stitch on the body with a welt pattern also. The wool is from my ram Rex and it is soooooo soft! I still have to find some buttons for it and it will be finito.

Here is a good verse for Thanksgiving time..

Psalm 100

A psalm. for giving thanks

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

We are headed to Arkansas for the week. First to visit a college my daughter is considering and then to visit family. It wont be the same this year and there is even a part of me that dreads it. My grandma passed away in August. She was 94 years old. We spent every Thanksgiving at her house and it was her favorite day of the year. We would cram 20-30 people in her small house but it was always such fun. I'm not sure how you have Thanksgiving without grandma but I know she would be upset with us if we didn't continue to all get together. So, we'll just have to figure it out I guess. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving everyone.

2008-11-16T01:19:00.003-06:00

So...long time no post. I will not even begin to go into why...just stuff. I probably shouldn't do this one at 1:30 in the morning but sleep is not happening tonight so I was lying in bed thinking of everything in the world and I started thinking of how long it has been since I posted anything. So here it goes...hopefully, since I haven't posted in so long, nobody will read this one and it will be far at the bottom of the page before anyone bothers to check it out.
Knitting has consumed me for the past few months. I made a sweater...a real sweater...with my own wool...that I spun....from my own sheep.... that I raised....by myself.....almost. Anyway, if you can't tell, I'm kind of proud of it. I'll try to post a picture of it soon.
I found a knitting store very close by that I did not even know existed before. It's one of those little houses next to her house in the middle of nowhere places. The best kind of store because everyone just goes and talks and helps each other out with knitting projects and there is even a spinning group that meets there once a month. See, this is why I miss blogging. Who else would understand why that is exciting other that those of you in blog world who love wool too?

Verse of the Week

2008-07-11T08:54:00.006-05:00

I tried to get a few pictures of the growing lambs but this is all I got...sheep with their heads down. It is pretty slim pickins in the pasture but there are spots of green appearing here and there.

Above are my merino girls..Laverne and Shirley. I love their personalities. They are so calm and easy going. Just looking at those wrinkles makes me dread shearing time!

Verse of the Week...hope you enjoy

Luke 6:32-36

"If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' lend to 'sinners,' expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful."

Fun Pics - 1

2008-06-20T13:49:00.007-05:00

I'm only going to post 1 ugly picture and then I am done with the negative stuff. This is what the pasture looks like after the water dropped. I am still waiting to see if it comes back. I have 50 bales of hay in the loft to use until I figure out what I'm going to do with all these sheep. They have a small area to graze (inside the black fence) for now. If you look beyond that you'll see what use to be corn and wheat. We were able to get out yesterday using our normal route to town and then they closed it today because the road is unstable so we are back to a 45 minute trip to town..but anyway...that is not much of an inconvenience compared to so many others here so I am aggravated with myself when I get aggravated....

It has been interesting talking to people about their experiences during the flood and one lady I spoke with said something that kind of surprised me. I asked her how close the water came to her house and she said...well...it didn't get my landscaping..She was obviously grateful it didn't get into her house but just the fact that she was thinking about her flowers kind of made me laugh. We wait all winter for those first greens of spring and anxiously await those first blooms so yeah..I get it...it didn't get her flowers...how great! So I thought I would share a few blooms of my own..

The kittens are taking a nap here and they now live in the sunroom...because....our new puppy seems to think they are chew toys. Yes...just what I need in the middle of all this flooding and cleanup and 40 mile trips to town...a new puppy. Don't even ask..... His name is Reggie and my son says he is a Labrador Receiver and he is named after his favorite receiver...Reggie Wayne of the Colts. At least he was free...ya right..

The Flood of '08

2008-06-15T18:34:00.010-05:00

I'm not sure where to begin. I live 5 miles from 2 rivers. One to my east, one to my west. A levy broke on both within 12 hours of each other. My family is fine, my animals are fine and my home is fine. Many homes in my area are completely gone. I can look out my front door at what use to be a lake with about 20 homes around it. There are only a handful of them left. The picture above is of my pasture. That is as close as it got to my house.

My kids and I got on a boat and left our home last week because all the roads had at least 4 feet of water over them. I rode on a boat through corn fields and under irrigation systems watching propane tanks float by. My husband stayed behind to watch the animals and take care of basically everything. The farmers have lost all their crops.

I was able to come home yesterday when we found a route that is accessible with a 4 wheel drive. Unfortunately, it takes 45 minutes to get to town now instead of 10. I am grateful to be home and I am grateful that I had a home to come home to. I can't stop thinking of all the people who have lost everything.

Unfortunately, I will not have anything for my sheep to eat this summer. The pasture will be gone. I am going to have to get rid of almost all of my sheep. I can keep about 5 in the black fenced area that was not affected. What am I going to do with the other 20 sheep? If you know of anyone who would like to add to their flock...and do it cheaply, please let me know.

This is our normal route to town. The road is gone beneath all that water. It will be some time before we take that route again. We will only be able to go to town once a day so I will be waiting in town for my daughter while she works. I am looking forward to helping with the Red Cross this week to prepare meals for emergency workers at our church.

I've seen the news of all the other areas that are flooded even more than we are. It is just unbelievable how many areas of the country are hurting right now. One thing is for certain; people really come together in a community to help one another when they face a crisis together. Americans are strong and I know each of these communities will overcome whatever they have to in order to get their lives back. These are the times you really understand that the best things in life are not things.

Verse of the week...hope you enjoy

James 1:2-4

Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

I'm such a sucker!

2008-06-04T13:28:00.008-05:00

So, when my daughter called me from work and said a girl there was trying desperately to get rid of her kittens before her father..um..disposed of them...what could I say? Yes, of course!! Seriously, how do you say no to such cuteness? Kids think it's a big deal that the kittens are free...right! There is no such thing as a free kitten or a free puppy!! One of them will have to be fixed, then there are shots, wormer, flee and tick meds...on and on and on...oh ya and a new screen door!

TA DA...introducing my new Merino ewe lambs! I am very excited to have found these beautiful girls only 2 1/2 hrs from where I live. I plan on crossing them with one of my Shetland rams next Spring for Fall babies. It will be hard to wait that long but the Merinos develop a bit slow and wont be ready to be bred until then. The picture is not great I know but they are still in a stall and there is not very good light in the barn. When I get them out I will get a picture of that unbelievable wool of theirs to show you.

This girl is already begging for animal crackers! They are not as friendly as my Shetlands but not as flighty as I feared either.

I inherited the worry gene from my father and his family. It drove me CRAZY as a kid and now, of course, I am just like him. My kids, you guessed it...hate it. And although I can read this verse over and over and over...well, I still worry. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this weeks verse..

Verse of the week:

Luke 12: 22-

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest? Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith!"

Let the sun shine

2008-05-21T08:36:00.008-05:00

We have a break from the rain and cloudy skies today so I thought I would get out and take some pictures to share. The lambs are all growing so fast. The little girl above will actually be a nice dark gray. Patsy (below) is one of my friendliest lambs.

Amos is finally getting his horns. His fleece is very nice so I hope those horns turn out ok.

Simmons is one of my nicest lambs. His fleece is gorgeous and his horns look great so far.

Lucy...what can I say about Lucy. That is a bit of a long story. She is now living with the rams. When my last ewe had lambed, I went out to find one of her twins in the middle aisle of the barn even though I had the mom and both babies still in a stall. His back was broken and he was in alot of pain. I had to put him down. I could not figure out how in the world he had gotten out of the stall. The gate was a hog panel so I assumed he probably stuck his head out and was pulled the rest of the way. The only way that could have happened was Lucy. I still didn't want to believe it but about a week later, after the mom and her other baby were out with the rest of the sheep; I looked out in the pasture and Lucy had the other baby by the back leg swinging it like a toy. I was able to get to him in time and he was ok. I have Lucy with the rams until I can figure this out. Then one night I went out to put the sheep up for the night and I couldn't find that little ram lamb. His mom was calling for him but no response. He has simply vanished. I can't find traces of blood anywhere. Nothing. I can't imagine a coyote getting in and only taking one sheep. I guess it will remain a mystery. I've talked to several people and read about livestock guardian dogs and I think it is a matter of aggressive play. She is not a mean dog.

On a brighter note, I have been busy keeping up with the yard and painting furniture. I found these old metal chairs in the trash at my grandma's house. I brought them home and had them sandblasted. I've always liked old stuff better than anything I could buy new. I have also started a new rug. This is the rug before it is washed and sewn. The colors are a nice slate blue, brown and tan. I'm sewing it now and that is by far the most time consuming for me. I'm anxious to get it done before school is out next week. I need something to catch all that dirt the kids bring in. Bring on Summer!!!

More Lamb Pictures

2008-04-30T09:26:00.005-05:00

Time to catch up on lamb pictures. My Internet provider has been unreliable as usual so I have been spending all my time outside. I've been mulching all my flower beds. I had several plants die last year and when I pulled them out, I noticed they had moldy looking mulch around them so I raked the old stuff out and put all new down. I have so much area to cover that I can't afford to buy it in bags so I used my trailer and bought it by the scoop full. Unfortunately, that means I have to shovel it all out into a wheel barrow and then dump it that way. It is a lot more work but also a lot less costly. It is good to have it all done. Now if I can just keep up with the mowing maybe I can get my house clean!

The lambs are growing so fast! I have loved looking at everyone's lamb pictures so I thought I would show a few of my new babies and a few of the older ones. This is a little ewe lamb I named Patsy. My grandpa who died before I was born raised sheep. My mom has several old black and white photos of her as a little girl with her dad and the sheep. So, I decided to name some of my sheep after some of my family. My moms name is Patsy...I'm not sure if she would be flattered or not! I think this little girl is a doll.

This is a ram lamb, Amos, was named after my grandfather. He is solid moorit and he is gorgeous! He is very correct and has nice crimpy fleece. I think he may be a keeper.

This was one of the first lambs born. His fleece looks great and he has nice straight legs and a tiny tail. His name is Wishbone and he will be for sale as I have a surplus of black lambs this year.

This is the latest set of twins born. One boy, one girl but no names yet..I'm running out of ideas! I still have 2 sheep who haven't had their babies yet. They look enormous and by my calculations, they have to have them by May 3rd. Lambing has been great fun this year. The babies have been so spread out that it really hasn't been stressful at all.

It may be raining but at least Spring is here

2008-04-10T12:52:00.003-05:00

It is raining..again...but there are beautiful signs of Spring everywhere. The ewes from 2 of the breeding groups have all lambed and now I'm waiting on the third group of girls. I can't wait to see the lambs from the ram I leased but they seem to be in no hurry to show me. Hope your lambing is going smoothly and I am enjoying all the lamb pictures I see on the blogs.

Here is the verse of the week..hope you enjoy.

The following is taken from The Purpose Driven Life..

What makes God smile?

God smiles when we love him supremely. "I don't want your sacrifices - I want your love; I don't want your offerings - I want you to know me." Hosea 6:6 (LB)

God smiles when we trust him completely. "He takes pleasure in those that honor Him; in those who trust in His constant love." Psalm 147: 11 (TEV)

God smiles when we obey him wholeheartedly. "Obey him gladly." Psalm 100:2 (LB)

God smiles when we praise and thank him continually. "The righteous are glad and rejoice in his presence; they are happy and shout for joy." Psalm 68:3 (TEV)

God smiles when we use our abilities. "He has shaped each person in turn; now he watches everything we do." Psalm 33:15 (Msg)

Lamb pictures

2008-04-03T16:16:00.005-05:00

I just went out to the barn and couldn't resist sharing these lamb pictures I took. This guy is now 1 day old and you can tell more about his markings now that he is all dried off and bouncing around. I have no idea what to name this guy. His markings are so striking. He looks like Gene Simmons! Maybe I'll name him KISS!

I think I'm gonna be a rebel!

I think my markings are much more dignified!

Well, I'm cute and saucy!

Wool, babies and verse of the week

2008-04-03T10:11:00.003-05:00

I have been experimenting with dyeing wool again. Michelle suggested I try over dyeing some of my black wool and I decided to give it a try. I don't have any idea if I did it right but the result was pretty cool. This is a black iset fleece and as you can see the dye was very uneven but I like the result. I think the roving will be beautiful.

We had one more baby born last night. He is a katmoget with black legs and belly and then his head is a combination of brown, black and white. I got out to the barn about 2 minutes before he came into the world. The ewe seemed to be in more pain than the others I have observed. When he came out she just sat there and made no attempt to start cleaning him off. I waited as long as I could and then I took off my sweatshirt (note to self: take some old towels out to the barn!) and cleaned off his head and used a syringe on his mouth and nose. She finally decided to take over but it scared me to death! 3 ewes down and 7 to go!

Verse of the week...hope you enjoy!

Psalm 104: 24, 31-33

"How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures....May the glory of the Lord endure forever; may the Lord rejoice in his works - he who looks at the earth, and it trembles, who touches the mountains, and they smoke. I will sing to the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live."

More babies

2008-03-30T15:22:00.003-05:00

As you can see, this ewe has not had babies yet but wow does she look like she is ready to pop!! I just can't believe she hasn't gone yet..any day. Zanex however did have her babies!

These little twin girls were born Wednesday night of last week. They were both up, dry and nursing when I went out to check on everyone one last time before going to bed. The 4 that have been born so far are all out of the same ram..Rex. As cute as they are, I have too many black sheep. These 4 will have to find new homes so I'm trying not to get too chummy...no names yet. They are so cute to watch! I feel bad that they have not been introduced to the outside world yet. It is just too wet here. I am having a heck of a time trying to keep everyone a dry, clean place to sleep!

BABIES ARE HERE!!

2008-03-26T09:19:00.003-05:00

The first lambs arrived on Monday night about 11:30 p.m. I had been watching this ewe very closely all day and she didn't let me down. I was able to watch the whole thing..how exciting!! Actually we all go to see it except my daughter who had been home the previous week on Spring Break..sorry Kels. She was very disappointed she didn't get to see any babies while she was home.

Of course, both lambs are rams..oh well, they are too cute to care right now!!

Verse of the Week

2008-03-24T12:20:00.004-05:00

I have neglected the verse of the week for so long I had to go back and look at where I am in the book I have been quoting from - The Purpose Driven Life. Looks like we're up to week 5. It is one of my favorite chapters in the book. I hope you enjoy it too.

It is titled "Seeing Life from God's View"

"The way you see your life shapes your life. How you define life determines your destiny. Your perspective will influence how you invest your time, spend your money, use your talents, and value your relationships. "

"The Bible offers three metaphors that teach us God's view of life: Life is a test, life is a trust, and life is a temporary assignment.

Life is a test - God continually tests people's character, faith, obedience, love, integrity, and loyalty. Words like trials, temptations, refining, and testing occur more than 200 times in the Bible....Character is both developed and revealed by tests, and all of life is a test.

Life is a trust - Our time on earth and our energy, intelligence, opportunities, relationships, and resources are all gifts from God that he has entrusted to our care and management. We are stewards of whatever God gives us....The more God gives you, the more responsible he expects you to be.

Verse to remember: Luke 16:10a (NLT)

Unless you are faithful in small matters, you won't be faithful in large ones."

Up and Running

2008-03-19T08:23:00.006-05:00

Well, it is good to be back in the land of Internet. Our satellite system basically blew up and we had to wait on them to come install a whole new system. I never realized how much I rely on the Internet! I keep up with my checkbook, the weather, my kids grades and homework assignments, email and of course my blog and the blogs I enjoy reading. Hopefully, this new system will work better than the old one. So much to share since I last posted so here goes...

The shearer came. All I can really say about him is he did get the wool off the sheep and he was a nice guy. Several cuts and not very even shearing. When he left I was both relieved and irritated. Relieved to have the wool off the sheep and irritated at how they look. I really shouldn't complain since I didn't have to do it myself this year!

We still don't have any babies! There are 4 girls who look like they could go any day. I think they will be spread out quite a bit this year. I was hoping to have all the babies on the ground by spring break and that is obviously not going to happen since that starts Friday. Oh well. I have started picking through all the fleeces and washing some. I am very happy with most of them and hope to have them all ready to take to The Fiber Event in Greencastle, IN in April. Frankenmuth Mill will be there to take your wool. Saves me having to box it all up and mail it.

I have also been experimenting with dyeing. I have one fleece that I'm not crazy about so I am using her fleece to practice on. I am also using colors I'm not crazy about. This is a lime green used on a light gray fleece. The color will be variegated since her fleece is gray, brown and even has some black in it. Should be interesting.

Projects and Waiting for Babies

2008-02-26T10:58:00.004-06:00

I have been making these balls of roving for a braided rug I am starting. I do this ahead of time to hopefully save time while braiding the rug. I separate the roving into 3-5 feet lengths to keep it from tangling while braiding. This is not even close to being all of it I will need but it is a good start. The colors didn't turn out in the picture but it is a combination of gray, black iset and brown. All that roving for a 3x5 rug!

I finally finished the blue/white mohair scarf I have been weaving. I had a hard time finishing it because the mohair was very hard to weave. It is very sticky! The final look is nice but it is not very soft and probably too scratchy to actually wear. It is probably the way I wove it..too tightly. A looser weave would probably given a softer finished product. I guess that is how you learn! The brown, black scarf is alpaca with a white cotton..very soft. The other plaid (did I mention I have a thing for plaids?) is a wool scarf.

I keep checking on the girls, any day now. Is anyone else this excited about lambing?

Shots, Round-up and Verse of the Week

2008-02-25T12:43:00.002-06:00

What a busy weekend!! It is always good to look back on a weekend and know you got something worth while accomplished. We cleaned out the sheep barn (I'm finally starting to call it that..it has always been know as the horse barn before the sheep took over). We created another stall and were able to bring all the sheep inside so their wool could dry for shearing. The barn has 4 - 12x12 stalls and 2 - 12x16 stalls so they have plenty of room. I was also able to give everyone their CDT shots and wormers. It gave me the chance to look at bellies and guess at how far along they are.

I like having them in a smaller area because it really tames some of the wilder ones down. I can spend more time with them and get some of the hay out of their wool before shearing. Of course it is more work to keep clean but I am anxious to get them sheared and start working on all that wool.

The 4th day of The Purpose Driven Life is all about eternity. Hope you enjoy this first paragraph from that chapter and the verse for the week.

"This life is not all there is. Life on earth is just the dress rehearsal before the real production You will spend far more time on the other side of death - in eternity - than you will here. Earth is the staging area, the preschool, the tryout for your life in eternity. It is the practice workout before the actual game; the warm-up lap before the race begins. This life is preparation for the next."

Verse of the week 1John 2:17

"This world is fading away, along with everything it craves. But if you do the will of God, you will live forever."

LUCY!!!

2008-02-20T09:46:00.005-06:00

My last post mentioned that Lucy was an 85 pound sweetheart.....well.....I'm not calling her a sweetheart today!! This is the second heated bucket she has destroyed. These things are $60 each! I can't even imagine how she is managing to turn them around to even get to the cord. They are very heavy when full and I do keep them full. Anyway, I have put the new cord in a pvc pipe and rigged it so that she hopefully wont be able to get to it. I'm suprised she didn't get shocked. She doesn't even look guilty..well, maybe a little.

I know she is probably bored. I don't spend as much time out there when it is this cold. I have to make myself stay and pet her for a while when I go feed. Guess I need to spend a little more time out there. She has some massive chew toys but I guess the big green one looked better to her!

I also need to go out to the barn more often...there might be a baby soon. There are 2 girls who could go soon but they really don't look ready yet. I'm starting to think about names already. Last year my kids wanted to do a Disney theme. I don't know if I will go with a theme this year or not. Maybe since it is an election year, I could go with former president's names? Maybe Clinton for the frisky ram lamb? I might be onto something here..will have to give it more thought.

Confused wool?

2008-02-15T14:16:00.006-06:00

I'm not sure what is going on with this guy's wool. The top layer of it is coming off and leaving the under layer alone. None of the other sheep are doing this so it doesn't seem like it would be rooing if he is the only one. We have had a very strange winter with temps in the 60's one day and then 20 the next. Very weird. I'm hoping the shearer will be here soon.

I have been in Arkansas for a week so have not had a chance to post. I got a call from my dad saying my grandma was not going to make it much longer and she wanted to say goodbye to everyone. She has been in the hospital for about a month. She passed out at home and was taken to the ER. She is now in extended care where they are hoping she will get strong enough to go home. I really don't think that will happen. She wont eat and is getting very weak. I was able to spend several days with her and I am very grateful. At 94 she is one of the funniest people I know. She doesn't even mean to be funny. She makes ma laugh and smile. She kept telling us all to be good to each other and love each other. Family is and has always been everything to her. The nurses love her because every time one of them would do anything for her she would say what every southern lady says..."bless your heart". She seems to be at peace and she knows where she is going when she leaves here. I'm just thankful that God picked me to be her granddaughter.
I haven't posted a picture of Lucy in awhile. She is an 85 pound sweetheart. She knows what her purpose is. She is happier because she knows her job is to guard her sheep. Day 3 of The Purpose Driven Life is about what drives your life.

"Everyone's life is driven by something. "

The 5 most common ones are:

Guilt

Resentment and anger

Fear

Materialism

The need for approval

The benefits of a purpose driven life are:

Knowing your purpose gives meaning to your life

Knowing your purpose simplifies your life

Knowing your purpose focuses your life

Knowing your purpose motivates your life

Knowing your purpose prepares you for eternity.

"Point to ponder: Living on purpose is the path to peace"

Verse of the week:

"You Lord, give perfect peace to those who keep their purpose firm and put their trust in you." Isaiah 26:3 (TEV)

Verse of the week

2008-01-31T16:40:00.001-06:00

This is my ram "Rex". I thought he had wonderful fleece and when I spun it last weekend I was even more impressed. He will however be going up for sale. I have given a lot of thought to what I want from my little sheep farm and have decided I want a small flock of varied colors for my own personal spinning, knitting, and weaving whims. I had at one time thought I would breed my girls every year and sell several each year. I have decided I want to keep a few and maybe breed a ewe or two each year. Having lambs is just too fun to not ever breed. I also have decided to get rid of my rams. If I want to breed a couple, I will lease a ram. As for ram lambs, which I am sure to get nothing but since I declared this, I will cross that bridge when I come to it. I think I am just getting tired. Maybe it is just the winter blaas. I remember back when I wanted a big house, a big yard in the country, lots of animals and now 20 years later...here I am and......I want a smaller house, a concrete yard painted green and I still want my animals but just not as many.

On an up note, I found someone to shear this year!! That is a huge relief!!

Well, we are suppose to get 6-10 inches of snow tonight so I am trying to psych myself up for a weekend full of inside projects. I promise to look at the snow and say "Oh, it's snowing...how pretty" and actually mean it. Inside joke.

Here is Day 2 from the book The Purpose Driven Life

I hope you enjoy it.

"You are not an accident"

"God never does anything accidentally, and he never makes mistakes. He has a reason for everything he creates. Every plant and every animal was planned by God, and every person was designed with a purpose in mind. God's motive for creating you was his love. The Bible says, "Long before he laid down earth's foundations, he had us in mind, had settled on us as the focus of his love." ( Ephesians 1:4a (Msg) )

God was thinking of you even before he made the world. In fact, that's why he created it! God designed this planet's environment just so we could live in it. We are the focus of his love and the most valuable of all his creation."

Verse of the week

Psalm 138:8

The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O Lord, endures forever - do not abandon the works of your hands.

Verse of the week

2008-01-22T09:06:00.000-06:00

My skills are slowly improving. Above is the scarf I just finished. Learning to knit has been so fun. I love the flexibility it allows you. I spend quite a bit of time sitting in my car waiting for practices to be over and it is a great way to pass the time. I have made 2 hats and the scarf so far and am working of a pair of wrist warmers.

I'm still not sure I enjoy spinning. I am getting better but it takes so long!! Maybe it will get faster as I improve but I can't imagine having the time to spin all my wool. I have to return the spinning wheel on Saturday at my last class so if I decide I want to spin my own wool I will have to buy a wheel. That leads to what kind of wheel? I don't like the wheel I have on loan but it is a loaner and not in the greatest shape. Any suggestions on the best wheels?

I looked out my kitchen window one dreary winter day this month and saw this beautiful bird. Just thought I would share it with you because it is pretty.

I have started reading a new book called The Purpose Driven Life. I have had the book for a long time and am just now getting around to reading it. I'm going to use it and the scriptures it references for my verse of the week for awhile. I hope you enjoy.

Day 1

"It's not about you.

The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It's far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by his purpose and for his purpose. "

Colossians 1:16

For by him all things were created; things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by him and for him.

Dreaming of Summer...all year

2008-01-16T09:58:00.000-06:00

This is a picture I took last Summer of an orange daisy. I was on an orange kick and every flower I bought was orange. I'm posting it to brighten your winter day and to remind myself that, God willing, summer will return. Maybe you like winter.......I do not. I spent the first 30 years of my life in a place where a sweatshirt was the heaviest winter coat required. I want to live there again. If I did not have kids in school and worry about uprooting them and causing who knows what kind of horrible, irriversable damage to them and their teenage social lives (this is of course how they view it)...I would move tomorrow. I will no doubt move the moment my youngest flies the coop. Of course by then, my oldest will have moved back, married and started a family and I will not be able to leave my grandchildren. I know, I know...I'm getting a little ahead of myself, but this is how I think when winter is here. I know it is necessary. I know God created the world and each season has a purpose. I know creation needs a rest. I will even admit snow can be pretty when it is falling, but after that initial thrill of, "Oh, it is snowing..how pretty!", it just gets ugly and dirty and makes everything a mess!! I'm sorry, this was not suppose to be a negative post but a cheery, orange, bright post... This is my buddy, Dixie. She is 8 years old and still acts like a puppy. She is not the sharpest tool in the shed but she loves us and she has been a great pal to my son. She still turns in circles at feeding time all the way from the house to the barn.. I hope I have that much energy when I'm...what would it be?...56. She is a good girl and everyone loves her....except the mail man.

This is my cat, Marla. As you can see, she hates winter too. She is a deck cat. She was suppose to be a barn cat, but she decided she would rather be a deck cat, which is fine. She occasionally finds her way to the hay loft to warm up on winter days. Marla had a brother, Marvin, but he ran out of the corn field at the wrong time and he is no longer with us. My daughter and I brought them home from a trip to the nursery to buy plants 2 years ago. The people who owned the nursery were annoyed by them and kept kicking them out of the way, so we asked if we could have them and they very excitedly agreed.

I also have a house cat and I would post her picture but I have only seen her a couple of times in the 9 years she has lived with us. She is my daughter's cat and basically lives in her room full time. She seems to have no desire to broaden her herizons nor does she need any humans in her life besides my daughter. I think she is very weird and kind of creepy but my daughter loves her...hopefully enough to take her when she goes off to college in a year and a half. Hope you have a wonderful, winter day.......I'm trying

Back to Reality

2008-01-08T18:39:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. We spent a quiet Christmas at home and then left for Mexico on the 1st!! I thought I would share some of my vacation pictures with you. It was so beautiful and the weather couldn't have been more perfect. The kids had a great time swimming with the dolphins but our favorite part of the trip was going whale watching. We saw several but my pictures don't really do it justice. Sometimes I hate being the camera guy because you feel like you miss part of everything while trying to get the picture!! Hope you enjoy the pictures and a belated Happy New Year!

Verse of the week

2007-12-20T09:47:00.001-06:00

I don't know why I have a thing for moose at Christmas, but I do. We have a small tree in our basement (which stays up all year and shoved into a corner) and we decorate it with a combination cowboy/moose ornaments. The basement is where we put the "fun" stuff. I made these cowboy boot stockings a few years ago to go with the theme.
I hope you enjoy your Christmas and are blessed by being surrounded by your family and friends. I pray you know the true blessing of Christmas as you celebrate. MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
This week's verse makes me think of Mary and what she must have been thinking. I remember what it felt like to hold my babies when they were born and look at them and wonder what they would grow up to be?..who would they look like?..what would they do with their lives? I thought of all the things I wanted for them. I love the song Mary did you know?
I cannot imagine what Mary must have felt. Did she know? Did she know her son would rule all of creation? Did she know her son would one day save all our sons and daughters?
I have one more passage from Luke to share with you before Christmas..I hope you enjoy it.

Luke 2:15-20
When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about." So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Verse of the week

2007-12-12T14:19:00.001-06:00

I wanted to share one of my favorite Christmas decorations with you. My son made these when he was 5 years old and they help me remember what Christmas is all about. They are priceless.

Here is the verse of the week...hope you enjoy..

Verse of the week:

Luke 2:8-14

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger." Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

Well, that's pitiful.

2007-12-11T09:47:00.000-06:00

Well, it is pitiful..my first attempt at spinning. I took my first class last Saturday and this is what I produced. I'm trying to make myself feel better by calling it novelty yarn..people pay big bucks for novelty yarn! This is definitely going to take lots and lots of practice!

Verse of the week

2007-12-06T10:38:00.000-06:00

Verse of the week..

Luke 2: 1-7

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. And everyone went to his own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Verse of the week

2007-11-28T08:45:00.001-06:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. We traveled to Arkansas to visit my family. We (30 of us) gathered at my 93 year old grandma's house and had Thanksgiving dinner. She was thrilled to have everyone there even though she is starting to have trouble remembering things and even people sometimes. I lived with my grandma during my high school years and I am so thankful for her. We never had much but she gave so much of herself to me over the years. Thank God for grandmas.

I have been remiss in posting a verse so I will remedy that. I think a series of verses about the birth of Jesus from now until Christmas would be good so here goes....hope you enjoy.

Verse of the week...
Luke 1:26-33

In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you."
....."Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

Verse of the week

2007-11-08T08:36:00.000-06:00

At shearing time this year, I only had 5 sheep. I sheared the poor little things myself with the help of my husband. I was so worried about cutting the sheep that it took us 30-40 minutes to shear each sheep. Needless to say, I now have a real appreciation for anyone who does this for a living. By the time I got to the last sheep, I had the hang of it...somewhat...and actually got the wool off in one piece.

I washed the wool but put off sending it in for many reasons. I didn't have much of it... I didn't really know where to send it and I didn't hold out much hope of it turning out very well. Two weeks ago, I decided to just send it. I sent it to Frankenmuth Woolen Mill and the lady on the phone said it would probably take about 12 weeks to get it back. I was a little disappointed because I have signed up to take a spinning class in December and was hoping to be able to use some of my own wool. It arrived a few days ago!! Less than 2 weeks and I had it back and it really turned out beautifully! I plan on using the black iset for a braided rug I'm making for my kitchen but the other two will go to spinning class with me!!

The verse of the week is actually a passage from Proverbs 31:10-31

I am only taking portions of it here since it is so long but it is entitled The Wife of Noble Character

...She selects wool and flax and works with eager hands...She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. She sees that her trading is profitable, and her lamp does not go out at night. In her hand she holds the distaff and grasps the spindle with her fingers. She opens her arms to the poor and extends her hands to the needy. When it snows, she has no fear for her household; for all of them are clothed in scarlet. She makes coverings for her bed; she is clothed in fine linen and purple......She makes linen garments and sells them, and supplies the merchants with sashes. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come....She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness.....Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

Projects, projects and more projects

2007-11-05T09:17:00.000-06:00

This is what happens when I make a trip to the yarn shop. I end up getting carried away. The closest place for me to buy good yarn is about 1 1/2 hours away, so I tend to stock up when I go. I bought this gray Shetland/Angora blend along with a red Merino/Alpaca blend to make a plaid scarf. I really love plaids and have to make myself try other things occasionally.

I bought this white and blue Mohair because I have never worked with it before and thought it would make a beautiful scarf as well. I'm hoping they turn out nice enough to give as gifts for Christmas. That would justify all the money I spent on the yarn!

My shawl turned out pretty good. It is the widest thing I have made on my loom so far. It is very soft and cozy. After I make the scarves, I want to learn to double weave. I have always wanted to make throw blankets and I love the look of the Woolrich wool blankets. All those stripes and plaids!

Happy Halloween

2007-10-31T13:30:00.000-05:00

Halloween just doesn't seem the same when your kids outgrow dressing up and trick or treating. Although my daughter did dress up for the local haunted house her class put on as a lady named Betsy Reed who is believed to have been hung where our High School now stands for poisoning her husband. Nice. It was actually very cool. That is her in the wedding dress poisoning her "husband".

My daughter who is in college mentioned missing the Fall decorations and pumpkins so I found this University of Illinois flannel fabric at Wal-Mart and made her a pumpkin. It was super easy and I know it made her smile.

I thought by now I would be able to post a picture of what Halloween becomes when your kids turn into teenagers...having your yard and trees decorated with toilet paper. So far, only one group showed up and my son and a friend were waiting for them and scared them off before they got the job done.

Have a Happy Halloween!

National Anthem

2007-10-29T17:40:00.000-05:00

I have sat through more games than I could possibly count. My oldest daughter was a cheerleader from 3rd through 12th grade. I went to almost every football game and basketball game she cheered at. My middle daughter cheered from 3rd through 8th grade and then played volleyball 9-11th ( one year to go). I went to almost every football, basketball and volleyball game. My son has played football, basketball and baseball since he was 6 years old. I have been to almost all of his games as well. My point? Well, at every game, the national anthem is sung. That is a lot of games. Some years ago, I found myself looking at the flag and wondering how many people even think about the flag or our country while they stand. Don't get me wrong. I'm not judging. When you attend that many games, it is easy to stand there and wonder what time you'll get home and how many things you can get accomplished before you get to bed.

I decided that every time they play the national anthem and I stand and look at our flag, I would say a prayer for our soldiers, their families, the leaders of our nation (regardless which party is in control). I am so thankful to live in such a great nation and I am especially thankful for all those who VOLUNTEER to serve this country.

I dread the upcoming elections. The bickering has already begun. Most of what they say has no substance and they never really answer any question asked them anyway.

That is why I decided to pray for the leaders of our nation (regardless of who has power). They all need it. Our country needs God...politically correct or not. We need a leader who knows he needs God.

Here is the verse of the week...hope you enjoy

Psalm33:8-15

Let all the earth fear the Lord; let all the people of the world revere him. For he spoke, and it came to be; he commanded, and it stood firm. The Lord foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people he chose for his inheritance. From heaven the Lord looks down and sees all mankind; from his dwelling place he watches all who live on earth--he who forms the hearts of all, who considers everything they do.

Help!!

2007-10-28T14:55:00.000-05:00

I am hoping someone out there can help or tell me where to look for instruction on dyeing my wool roving. I purchased this kit which includes various cushing dyes, citric acid crystals, pre-wetting solution and a measure cup. It also came with a book but it deals only with dyeing wool fabric. I'm sure parts of the process are the same but I'm just unsure and don't want to destroy any of my roving. Any dye experts out there?

Verse of the week

2007-10-24T11:52:00.000-05:00

Finally, I have started a new project on my loom. It has sat empty since last winter. I have only just learned to weave so I had a hard time remembering exactly how to dress the loom. It took me 3 tries to wind the warp correctly on the warping board. Once I finally mastered that, I got as far as inserting the lease sticks and just went blank. I sat and stared at the loom for about an hour, trying this and trying that, looking at my books. I finally conceeded defeat and called the lady who taught me how last Fall. She was very nice and walked me through it. I took thses pictures so I would remember the steps next time. It is the largest thing I have attempted so far. It will be a cotton, silk 24 x 72 shawl. I wanted to do something larger than the scarves I have done previously. I'm waiting now for help winding it onto the back beam. I need someone to hold it tight in the front while I wind it. Hopefully one of the kids will help me out this evening. Here is the verse of week...hope you enjoy.

Verse of the week:

Psalm 37:3-6

Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

YUCK!!

2007-10-22T10:35:00.000-05:00

Not a pretty picture I know, but this is a perfect example of what the cows are doing to my run out stall in my barn!! I like cows, I really do. They are pretty in their own way, fun to have around and actually they deter coyotes. I love having a freezer full of beef and knowing what that beef was fed before it reached my freezer. But they are destroying my run out stall!!!

I tried convincing my husband this weekend that we don't need more cows after these are gone. He says he likes the cows...I say WHY? He says he just likes having them. Well, how do I argue with that when I have my sheep and want more sheep? I can't. He has always been so good about helping me get things done with the sheep and encouraging me to do the things I enjoy. So more cows will come..but.....how about we build the cows their very own shelter...IN THE PASTURE...where they can't get into the barn? That of course would leave more room for my sheep! That sounds like a great idea to me. I'm working on it..wish me luck.

We think that is a great idea!!

Mass chaos!!

2007-10-19T14:42:00.000-05:00

Can somebody tell me where I am suppose to be? The storm that went through last night messed everything up!! We were all in our nice little breeding groups and the next thing I know, everyone is all mixed up!! HELP!! Everyone just stop right there! Back to your breeding groups right this minute!

I think I am suppose to be in there!

Ok...this is better...everyone is back in their right pens. UM...are we suppose to know which ram that was last night?

Sheep are so complicated...I don't care where any of them are as long as they stay out of my pen!

Verse of the week

2007-10-14T17:22:00.000-05:00

I am very excited that tomorrow is the day I get to go to the Covered Bridge Festival! I look forward to this day all year. Many of the shops and booths carry crafts that you can find in many other shops but you always have those few places that have unique, homemade items you can't find anywhere else. Those are my favorites. Of course, I'll be on the lookout for any unique "sheep" collectibles...maybe I'll even find another weird tree.

My verse this week is not about sheep, lambs, shepherds or flocks but it is one of my favorite passages in the Bible. The preacher was using scripture from Titus this morning in his sermon and as I was reading over this scripture, I decided it would be the verse of the week...hope you enjoy

Verse of the week:
Titus 2:11-14
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope-the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

Thank you Columbus for the 4 day weekend!

2007-10-08T20:31:00.000-05:00

I don't recall ever getting out of school for Columbus Day but my kids have always had a 4 day weekend because of the great explorer. We had a busy but great 4 day weekend. We went to visit my daughter in college. It was Dad's weekend so she took her dad to the football game then we all went out to eat. Sunday I went and got this ram who I have leased from Gail. I was very tempted to buy him but leasing seemed like a great idea since I really don't NEED another ram.

I enjoyed a short visit with Gail and then back to the house to watch the Colts...GO COLTS!!

Today my son (and Lucy) helped me round up all the sheep. We wormed everyone and trimmed feet. It was an exhausting day but I am very glad to have it all done. I went ahead and put all the breeding groups together so I am set and ready to go. Tomorrow I sub for Kindergarten. That will probably be more exhausting than anything I did all weekend!

De-horned and De-maned..ouch

2007-10-05T17:10:00.001-05:00

I had to take my ram lamb to get him cut today..both horns and well, you know. I was expecting blood and pain and any number of other unpleasant things but the horn cutting was actually painless, clean and basically no big deal. The vet used this gigli wire to saw the horns off. You can run your fingers up and down this wire and not cut yourself but it just zips those horns right off. He used the screws to hold onto the wire. Then he showed me how it would also cut through a wood post. He gave me one and told me "just do it yourself next time." So, now I can check off one more thing on my I have learned to do and don't need the vet for list For those veteran sheep owners out there, this is probably no news to you...but I thought it was pretty cool.

Verse of the week

2007-10-04T14:10:00.000-05:00

I searched and searched and finally found a Bible verse that not only referenced sheep but the harvest as well.

The fields around us have all been cut...the harvest is in. It makes me kind of sad to see all the corn cut. It is kind of like my own big fence. When it is gone, the prarie looks deserted to me, the winds blow more freely and it feels less private than before. I am however thankful for the different seasons. What an awsome creation God made for us. Each season has its own beauty to look forward to. Fall seems to be the most vibrant to me. I am always amazed by the colors, especially when the sun hits a maple tree just right.....amazing. My God is an awsome God..(one of my favorite songs).

Here is the verse of the week...hope you enjoy it.

Verse of the week:

Mattew 9: 35-38

Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

Another Weird Tree

2007-10-01T17:04:00.000-05:00

Once a year, a friend of mine and I go to the Covered Bridge Festival in Indiana. It is a huge event in this area for anyone who loves crafts. There are several ( I forget how many) old covered bridges scattered throughout the area and the festival is scattered out as well. It is not possible to see it all in one day but I am grateful I am able to get away for a day and see as much of it as I can. Our day this year is coming up soon...Oct. 15th!!! It made me think of all the things I have purchased there over the years. I usually try to get a little Christmas shopping done while there but inevitably, I buy something for my house. It is simply too hard to resist.

I dug out my Fall decorations and thought I would share this picture of another one of my "weird trees" I brought home from there. It has pumpkins (not sheep) on a gnarled tree and I just love it.

I love Fall and am ready for some cooler temps here. We are still having mid 80's and absolutely NO rain. I think I have lost 3 trees this summer due to the lack of rain. It hasn't done much for my pastures either!

Verse of the Week

2007-09-28T14:04:00.000-05:00

I recently had a birthday (the big 40!). Not so big actually, I really don't mind getting older...yet. I figure it is better than the alternative. This Willow Tree Angel was a gift from my middle child who is like most teenage girls...clueless that the whole world does not revolve around her. I guess that is why this gift was so surprising and wonderful to me. She is a good kid and has been working hard at school, her part-time job and her volleyball games and practices. She picked it out and paid for it with her own money and it was so obvious she really worked to get something that would be meaningful to me. I would have been happy with just a card...what a wonderful surprise.

Here is the verse of the week...hope you enjoy it.

Verse of the week:

Revelation 7:16-17

..Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."

Just too buisy

2007-09-25T18:57:00.000-05:00

I thought I would post some pictures to show why I have been so neglectful in posting to my blog. Since school has started, I just don't seem to have a free moment. Baseball season is now over and there is one more football game this Saturday. But of course basketball practice starts on Sunday. Then there is volleyball. Usually, we have 3 games a week. That will go on until the end of October. Don't misunderstand...I love watching the kid's games. However, I find myself actually looking forward to winter(did I actually just think that?!) when things will hopefully slow down a little. I also hope to have a little time to dive into my wool and start some new projects. I really want to find a class to learn to spin. Not what every girl dreams of doing but hey...I am who I am.

I've not had as much time as I would like to spend with the sheep either. Looks like Lucy has it covered! She is getting so big!

Verse of the Week

2007-09-12T09:20:00.000-05:00

I have my own little sheep room in my basement. It is just big enough for my loom, a small cabinet for storage and my computer desk. I have a small collection of "sheepy stuff". I like finding a piece here and there and adding to my collection gradually. One of my favorite things is this quirky sheep tree. I bought it at the Covered Bridge Festival last October. I had seen these willow trees in several shops but never with sheep on them! I have to tell you, this tree was a great source of amusement to my children and husband. Their amusement is actually the reason I now have my sheep basement room. I brought home my sheep tree and was so excited to find just the right spot in my kitchen for it. After their "amusement" at my tree got really OLD...I marched my sheep tree to the basement and set it on this shelf my daughter made for me. I have added a few more items to the shelf and when I look at it..well..it makes me smile.

Here is the verse of the week...hope you enjoy

John 10:27

"My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.."

Felted Purse

2007-09-09T21:41:00.001-05:00

I made this felted purse early this summer after attending a fiber festival. They had such beautiful purses I couldn't resist so I bought some lovely blue/green roving, a form and a felting needle and gave it a try. It turned out pretty cute but a bit too small to be very useful. I added the sheep pin to give it a little "something". I enjoyed making it because it is something I can do while watching t.v. or sitting at practices with my kids or pretty much anywhere.

I am in the process of making a larger purse with a brown/gray roving. It will have a flap that comes over the top to close the purse. It is made by layering the roving in alternating directions on the form and using the needle to felt the layers together. You felt about 5 layers and then take the purse off the form and turn it wrong side out and then following the same method. Take it off again and turn right side out on the form and felt until you get the look you want. It is time consuming but I am enjoying it. I would love to take a class on felting. Maybe I'll find one within 100 miles of me one of these days! People around here just don't get excited about wool..I don't get it.

Getting aquainted

2007-08-28T10:14:00.000-05:00

I picked up 3 new sheep this weekend ( I told you this was an addiction) from Gail Former. Gail has so many wonderful sheep to choose from and she is a great source of information. I enjoyed my time visiting with her and I am very lucky Gail only lives about 1 1/2 hrs from me. I am very excited to bring some moorit into the flock. 1 yearling ewe and 2 ewe lambs. I think they are beautiful and one of our cows seems to like them too! She keeps sticking her head through the hole to say hi. Our barn was originally built for our horses and the hole is an automatic waterer that can be shared between the 2 stalls. I missed the shot of the cow licking one of the girls as she smelled the intruder. Below is a better shot of the girls, one is a katmoget and the other 2 are light moorit. I am already dreaming of spring lambs.

Verse of the Week

2007-08-27T10:24:00.000-05:00

Early mornings have become one of my favorite times of the day. Before I feed the animals, I take Lucy out to walk the pasture and let her spend time with the sheep. When I open the gate to the pasture, the sheep form this single file line and follow me and Lucy. Once they branch out and start grazing, Lucy makes her way to each one to say hello. She still wants to lick their faces and bite on their ears which is a no no. The lambs are in love with Lucy. They sleep beside her pen in the barn and tolerate her puppiness very well. Isn't it funny how these little things give us the most pleasure in life? Here is the verse of the week...hope you enjoy it.

John 10: 7-10

"I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out and find pasture."

Country life + Technology does not = Love

2007-08-22T20:08:00.000-05:00

Well after only 2 weeks my Internet is back up. Living in the middle of nowhere....well, there is no place I would rather live....but....our options for Internet service is limited to Direcway/HughesNet and they STINK!!!!!

That being said...it has been an incredibly busy few weeks. We took my daughter to college last weekend . I actually handled it better than I thought I would. I woke up early to go feed the animals since I knew we would be home late that evening. I had a good cry with my sheep and Lucy. I started thinking of all the mothers in this world who are facing horrible things with their children and how lucky I am that my kids are safe, healthy and my daughter has this incredible opportunity before her. I have prayed and I have prayed for her safety, for the right roommate, safety, her to make good friends, safety, well, you get the picture. I have to let it go and trust God. He always works things out the way they should be even if it is not how I think it should be. Well I wont dwell on that anymore. As Forrest would say.....that's all I have to say about that.

Lucy is growing so fast. My son still begs to take her in the house to stay. Right now I am wishing she was already grown and ready to patrol. I went out to feed this evening and I noticed movement on the far end of the fence row...I couldn't tell if it was a coyote or a dog. Probably a dog but a stray for sure. I put everyone up for the night but I can't quit thinking about it. It ran into the corn when it saw me. I made everyone as safe as I can for the night. I sure hope it is enough.

Alllllmost there!!!

2007-08-09T18:40:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of my trumpet vine that I have been babying for a year and a half. It has finally reached the top of the post so it can start growing horizontally now. We built this deck last spring after 10 years of having to jump 3 feet to the ground from the kitchen door. The deck that was here when we moved in was rotten and unsafe so we tore it down. I'm still not sure which was more dangerous...the 3 foot drop or the rotten deck?

This vine grows wild and I probably could have dug one up somewhere but this one has variegated leaves and I really liked that. It is also a fast grower and that was the main reason I wanted it. The sun comes in my kitchen window and door in the afternoons and makes the kitchen so HOT. I know..why not just get blinds or curtains? I am somewhat anti-binds and curtains. I live in the middle of nowhere and I want to be able to see outside all the time. I just have a weird thing about blinds..maybe it is the cleaning of the blinds I don't like?
Unfortunately, this is how far we still have to go. I have been told, however, that the vine will grow much faster horizontally than vertically. We'll see I guess.

Lucy the Great Pyrenees

2007-08-06T21:21:00.000-05:00

Meet Lucy, the newest addition to our farm family. She is the sweetest little thing...well not so little for a puppy but little compared to how big she will get. We got her from Brenda Lelli of Beechtree Farm in Michigan. I almost didn't get her because I could not get away to go pick her up. Fortunately for me, Brenda had sold one of the puppies to a couple from Indiana who only live 1 hour from me. They agreed to bring her with them and I met them only 10 minutes from my house today. It was so nice of them to do that for me and they were the nicest people. Below, Rex was curious but minded his manners..

Lucy was the name my children came up with...not bad...but not descriptive of a guardian/protector/watch dog/coyote deterrent. I hope the coyotes don't hear us call her LUCY!! Ellie Ann left the rest of the flock to follow us when we took our walk around the perimeter of the pasture this evening..I think she likes her.

Thank you God for puppies....Here is the verse for THIS week...hope you enjoy it.

Acts 20:28

Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the Church of God, which he bought with his own blood.

Verse of the (last) week

2007-08-05T20:02:00.000-05:00

I neglected to post a verse last week..I guess my excuse is the fair kept me running back and forth so much I did not have time. So I guess I could post a verse twice this week to make up for it. I have the perfect one in mind for the picture I hope to have by tomorrow evening. No telling yet! This picture is just one of those random things that I enjoy looking at. For some reason, these things of the past make my house feel homey to me. I really think sometimes that I was born about a century too late. I like antiques but not just any antiques. The ones I like aren't really even worth anything. They are usually beat up and need repair. They are things that were useful like my grandma's butter churn, old quilts....I even have the cotton scales that my grandma and grandpa used not only to weigh the cotton but they used it to weigh my dad when he was born!! Here is the verse of the (last) week. Enjoy!

Verse of the week:
He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Isaiah 40:11

Goat Tote

2007-08-04T09:19:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of a GOAT TOTE a friend let me borrow to use during the fair. It is very handy for 4-5 sheep but that is about all that will fit. Then there is no room in the bed of your truck for hay, straw and other necessities. We have been trying to decide what kind of trailer to buy to transport the sheep and although the goat tote is handy I think I want something a little bigger. I was grateful to have the tote on Friday when my daughter and I headed up to Juliann's house to pick up my 2 new sheep. We spent the first half of the day dorm room shopping. We didn't get to Juliann's place until around 6:30. I enjoyed visiting with her and looking at all her beautiful sheep and I also picked up some of her roving while I was there. I wish I would have had more time but we had a 4 hour drive home so we made it quick and got home around 11:30.

The two new girls are settling in nicely. I have been trying to rig up more fans this morning...it is HOT!! I am up to 10 sheep now with a few more to get next weekend. I am already excitedly trying to figure out breeding groups! I just love these little sheep!

County Fair Week

2007-07-31T13:08:00.001-05:00

It is 4-H fair week!! We had the sheep show early this morning and now I finally have a moment to post. It has been a very hectic week but we are having a great time getting to know other "sheep people" in the area.

Here is my son showing the GRAND CHAMPION RAM!!! Our 4-H show lumps all breeds together instead of separating them so I could not believe the judge placed our Shetland ram over all the other breeds. Our 4-H show is not very big and it seems to get smaller every year...but still...it was very exciting. I think I saw a few jaws drop when it was announced. Don't get me wrong, everyone there thought our sheep were "cute and sweet" , but I really don't think anyone expected us to win anything. The judge thought our sheep had wonderful conformation and fleece.

Our other sheep did pretty good also. We had a first place ram lamb and first place ewe lamb. The Junior Fair followed the 4-H show and we were the only wool breed there....so as you can imagine...we did REALLY well in the wool breed class!!!! My son learned a lot about showing and he had several friends help him out when he had more than one sheep in a class.
I was approached by a man from a neighboring county and he asked if I would consider bringing my Shetlands to his county fair next year. He told me they would have a separate Shetland class if I was willing. I thought that was awesome!!! We will try to make that happen next year. Well, I am off to check on my sheep....

Knight in Shining Armor

2007-07-26T20:55:00.000-05:00

I love to read. I have just finished this book and I wanted to share it with you. Mostly for you gals but guys wanting to understand their gals might like it too. Have you ever read something and you think...I've never even thought of it that way...? That is what I thought throughout this whole book. Notice the castle in the background? Do you like stories about knights in shining armor and their beautiful ladies? This book starts with the story of Eve in the Garden of Eden and helps women understand how God wants to be the hero of our lives. Did you know that a knights motto was...LIVE PURE, SPEAK TRUE, RIGHT THE WRONG, FOLLOW THE KING...Sounds like a pretty good motto for all of us.

Here is the verse for the week...hope you enjoy it.

Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Luke 12:32-34

Same Sheep?

2007-07-25T16:07:00.001-05:00

This is a picture of the first lamb born on our farm. I have been amazed by how much his color continues to change. When he was born, he almost seemed like he would be black. When the black started changing to brown, I could tell it was going to fade but I couldn't tell what was going to be under it. I was convinced it would be grey and it may be, but now.....the color has a taupe color. There is just enough brown that I think he may be considered musket. It is a beautiful color and his fleece is sooooo soft and uniform. Of course, he has bad horns. I've known for awhile that he would have to be cut but I think I will keep this guy just for his beautiful wool!

Vacation Time..sort of

2007-07-15T17:51:00.000-05:00

Our family is heading off tomorrow to visit my family in Arkansas. It is a nice way to get away without spending a lot of money (free room and board!) I have a friend who is coming over to take care of the animals and house sit while we are away so I have been trying to get things set up to be as easy as possible. My husband made this hay feeder for me yesterday and I think it turned out pretty good. This is a small area where the two ram lambs are for the time being. It will be nice this winter for feeding hay.
As I was mowing and trying to get everything done before leaving, I realized there were little reminders of my family all around me. These flowers came from my grandma's yard. I don't even know what they are but they remind me of her every time they bloom. She is 93 and I can't wait to see her. I don't get to see her often enough and every time I do, I am afraid it will be the last time. She is a flower nut just like me. I think I will take some pictures of my flowers to show her. I know it really bothers her that she can't get out and work in the yard. She use to have the biggest garden I had ever seen and she canned enough food to last all year long.

This plow belonged to my grandpa. He loved to grow watermelons. He is gone now but I keep this rusty thing because it makes me remember him when I look at it. I remember how he loved basketball and put up an old makeshift goal for me and my brothers when we came to visit.

It is so hard to get away for a week. I know when I come home the yard will be too tall and the pens will all be a mess and I will have laundry up to my eyeballs. It's worth it. This will be the last trip we take as a family before my daughter goes to college. There is a part of me that knows things will never be quite the same. But, everything changes...we just have to adapt and find happiness in the little things...like my grandma's flowers and an old rusty plow...treasures to me. Back in a week.

Cool T-Shirts

2007-07-13T09:50:00.000-05:00

I mentioned on an earlier post that I went on a mission trip to North Carolina. The organization that we went through is called Youth Works. We had an opportunity to purchase t-shirts before we left and I wanted to share this one with you. It is not a great picture but you can get the idea. The back has a verse that says..." for you were like sheep going astray, but now you have returned to the shepherd and overseer of your souls. Peter"

The ministry they get the shirts from is called Youth Enterprise and it is a non-profit ministry that provides jobs to youth living in innner-city communities. YE students are involved in every aspect of the t-shirts creation including concept, design, printing and order fulfillment. All funds generated support YE and the students they serve through the ministry.

Their web site http://www.yefonline.com/ You should check it out..they have many, many t-shirts to choose from..you might find something you like.

Here is the verse for the week:

"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me - just as the Father knows me and I know the Father - and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd."

Just some pics

2007-07-10T09:13:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures I've snapped during the past week. Everyone likes pictures...at least I do. I love looking over the blogs and web pages and just looking at all the sheep. They are all so different!!

My email has been down for a couple of days and all you get when you call is a recording saying they are down..no kidding....they wont let you talk to a real person...grrrrrrr.

I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Finished

2007-07-08T16:07:00.000-05:00

I finally got around to finishing my rug. It ended up being about 3' in diameter. I thought I would make an oval rug but once I figured out where I was going to put the rug, I decided the round would work best. I really enjoy making the rugs but WOW do they take a lot of roving! I think I will need quite a few more sheep if I want to make many rugs!

I separated the ram lambs today from the others and before I could get to the ewe lambs, the temporary fence broke and off they went to the pasture. It was too hot to chase anyone around so the girls will have to wait for another day.

This halter training has me soooo frustrated. The lambs will come up to me and practically beg to be petted and then you put a halter on them and they become possessed! I am seriously considering not taking them to the fair if it doesn't get better soon. I thought by now it would be going better than it is. Any tips?

Getting the itch..

2007-07-05T18:38:00.000-05:00

Here is a picture of my daughter and our Great Pyr, Woody, about 9 years ago. Woody only lived for 9 months due to a congenital kidney defect. He was an awesome dog and now I have the itch for another one. We didn't have sheep when Woody was with us but that is why I want one now. I am nervous about this coming winter and the numerous coyotes we have in our area. We have nothing but farm land surrounding us and when the crops are gone and the cold makes it hard for them to find food, they really become a problem. I only had 6 sheep last winter and so they were in a pretty confined area but now they have access to the pasture and I would just feel better with a guardian out there full time.. I have a lead on a puppy so I'm keeping my fingers crossed that I can find one soon. Dogs are just the most amazing animals. Is there really another animal that gives such unconditional love? They could care less what you look like, how much money you have or any of that stuff. I've always thought they must come as close as possible to being the perfect example of how God wants us to love one another.

I snapped this picture as storms passed thru again this evening. We went from no rain to having rain everyday. I'm not complaining...the grass is green and the pasture is looking good again. The sheep are happy.....here is the verse for the week...hope you enjoy it.

Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his, we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3

Babydoll Sheep

2007-07-02T11:55:00.000-05:00

I was able to visit a friend of mine who has acquired a small flock of Baby doll Southdown sheep. She has had alpacas for years and recently expanded into sheep. I think this little girl has the cutest face. She is being bottle fed so she is very friendly. I didn't realize that this is what the original Southdown sheep looked like.

I now know 2 other ladies from my area who raise sheep. One of them even offered to haul my sheep to the 4-H fair for me since I do not own a trailer. I was so relieved because I really wasn't looking forward to making 4 trips to the fairgrounds with dog crates full of sheep in the back of my Tahoe. She and her daughter also came out this morning while we were working on the halter training (which is going much better) and gave my son a few pointers on showing... So thank you to Jamie and Hannah for all your help!!

Sheep Torture!

2007-06-30T21:13:00.000-05:00

Is this the definition of torture or what? We started halter training and needless to say, the lambs did not enjoy it one bit. In all honesty, it wasn't much fun for the humans either. This ram lamb was jumping as high as my head and he had no interest in cookies or any other treat. I'm hoping it gets better with time.

I realized that the 4-H fair is probably the only show we will be able to attend this summer because my oldest daughter will be moving to college in the middle of August and it is going to be too hectic (and emotional) for me to be going off for a week here and there to shows. I was hoping to get to a few shows this year and get to know a few more "Shetland" people but it doesn't look very promising. Maybe next year!

Darn Bugs!

2007-06-28T09:55:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorite flowers in my garden. It is an orange cone flower and it blooms all summer. I noticed yesterday that the Japanese Beetles were having a feast in my garden so I had to spray everything and I'm not sure it made much of a difference. I think when I get to heaven, I want to ask God why in the world did He make fleas, ticks, gnats, flies and JAPANESE BEETLES!! But seriously, I love summer. The absolute beauty of the flowers, trees , sky , corn fields and wheat is amazing. I wonder if it ticks God off when we pass by all that beauty without noticing. I know He put it here for us to enjoy so go notice something today...here is the verse for this week...hope you enjoy it.

Matthew 18: 12-14

What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.

Bad Horns??

2007-06-27T15:30:00.000-05:00

I am worried about this guys horns. They seem to be growing straight back and curving in. I guess I will just have to keep an eye on them. I am really suprised because his sire has beautiful horns. This guy has caused me alot of confusion..he was born black with white on his head so that is how I registered him. Then I got all excited because I thought he was moorit but now..well, now I think grey but who knows? Why would I register him so soon? My son wants to show the lambs in our local 4-H show and the papers had to be turned in by May 1st. This guy wasn't born until the 3rd week of April so ..I can tell that is going to be a real pain in the rear every year. Does anyone else have that situation and a better way to deal with it?

SO GOOD TO BE HOME

2007-06-23T15:47:00.000-05:00

What a great week we had in the mountains of North Carolina. There were over 70 high schoolers at our mission site. We worked with Habitat for Humanity, painted and cleaned for several individuals at their homes and helped with a kids club for the area children. I had a great time but it is so good to be home. I missed the others in my family, my sheep, and I most certainly missed my bed and getting a good night sleep! I slept on air mattresses with teenage girls all week, so as you can imagine, not much sleeping but a whole lot of giggling and talk of boys went on! This picture doesn't do the mountains justice but it was taken with a disposable camera. The Youth Works staff said there would be 5000 kids in various sites around the country each week this summer. That is an awesome number of youth willing to take a week of their summer to help others!

Heading off for a mission trip

2007-06-14T20:36:00.000-05:00

My two teenage daughters and I will be leaving for a mission trip with our church youth group. We will be gone for a little over a week. So as you can imagine my week has been crazy trying to get everything ready. We have gone on a couple of these and it is always so good for us. We come back feeling very thankful for all we have and with a renewed sense of wanting to help and serve others.
I have been trying to make reading my bible at night a habit. I know that sounds bad...like I have to make myself, but I guess that is the truth. It is usually been a long day and I just want to get to bed and let's face it..it is hard to imagine that stuff that happened all those years ago pertains to us..but I know it does. So, I started thinking about how God often talks about us being his sheep and He the shepherd watching over his flock. I looked it up and to the best of my knowledge, the Bible mentions the words: sheep, shepherd(s), flock and lamb(s) 96 times!!!! Now I looked them all up...really. I also had a blast doing it.. so I thought maybe once a week, I would share one of the verses with you. I hope you enjoy it..

Verse of the week: I Peter 5:2-4

Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers - not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.

Talk to you all in a week!!

2007-06-12T08:52:00.000-05:00

I was able to attend the Hoosier Fiberarts Festival a couple of weeks ago and took a workshop by the ladies who wrote A Shepherd's Rug, Letty Klein and Ann Brown. It was so much fun and I made this neat chair pad. If you ever get a chance to attend one of their workshops, I highly recommend it. If you can't find a workshop their book is really well written and easy to follow. They are wonderful ladies and it is just a fun day. It was the first fiber event I had ever gone to and I couldn't believe all the stuff people do with roving. I got lots of ideas!! Now I just need to find the time somehow to do it!

I enjoyed the workshop so much, I purchased enough roving to make another rug, a 2x3 with grey, charcoal and green. I have the braids done and felted and now I just have to sew it..again the time thing! I need to send my own wool off to get processed but am not really sure where to send it as I have never done that before. Any suggestions?

Shetland and Sheltie

2007-06-10T16:46:00.001-05:00

2007-06-10T16:31:00.000-05:00

This good looking guy is my son and the other good looking guy is our Shetland sheepdog, Rusty. I guess we were destined to get Shetlands since we already had the dog!

Here is Achilles with a mouthful of what is left of the pasture. We desperately need rain! He is a very friendly guy...I'm guessing too friendly for a ram. My son has chosen him as a personal favorite and named him after Achilles in the movie Troy. I really like his stripped horns!

My 2007 lambs

2007-06-09T15:40:00.000-05:00

This was my first lamb born on our farm. He is Pinewood Aladdin and I have no idea what color he will end up. At first he was black, then brown, now I think he may end up grey. He is really well built and his fleece looks nice as well. He is out of Sheltering Pines Tibia Rex and Underhill Ellie Ann.

This little cutie is Pinewood Belle and she is out of Sheltering Pines Tibia Rex and Lil' Country Lexus. She has gorgeous fleece and 2 cute polka dots on her back.

This set of twins is out of Bluff Country Hershey and Bluff Country Zanex. They have beautiful fleece and conformation. They are Pinewood Nala and Achilles.

My very own sheep farm!

2007-06-07T15:10:00.000-05:00

After 10 years of wanting sheep, I finally have my very own small flock of Shetland sheep. The only problem now is...I want more....more sheep....more WOOL!!