farmjournal

Please Mr. Postman....

2012-01-25T10:06:00.000-08:00

Bring me some yarn.....

Make it the softest....

That you've ever seen....

Tee hee! Some of the pictures are my favorite 'oldie but goodies'. The sheep and I love spinning yarn so if you don't see yarn you need on our website, please email! We adore special orders- and all of you!

Smooches from the sheep!
www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com

Too many sheepies sleepin'' in the snow....

2012-01-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

Too many sheepies sleepin' in the snow...

One rolled over and bumped her nose....

Took her to Sandy and Sandy said....

NO more sheepies sleepin' in the snow!

(Emma agrees- she is staying in the barn! None of them listen. After my 'no more sleepin' in the snow' declaration they grabbed their sleds and threw snowballs at me. Really sheep?!)

www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com

Hay Days!

2012-01-05T09:18:00.000-08:00

Tee hee! Happy New Year everyone- hay days are always a happy one for the sheep!

Each week to 10 days Hay Man Stan arrives with gigantic bales of hay early so the ground is still frozen. That way he can deliver the sheep's hay with out his skid steer sinking into the pasture...

The sheep can hear Hay Man Stan coming about a mile away-here they are watching to be sure the hay gets into perfect spots.

Sonny sheep thinks I can't see him? Really Sonny? You are taller than this huge bale of hay!

Last but not least, Keebler is showing you why we are so happy to have coats on the sheep- thank you all again! The hay is very leafy (their favorite kind of alfalfa salad) so gets all over everyone... eeeeek!

SO, na na na na, na na na na, Hay Hay Hay, good bye! bwaaahahahahaha!

Smooches from the sheep everyone!
www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com
ryan3@tds.net

Twas the night before Christmas.......

2011-12-24T19:26:00.000-08:00

'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the farm,
Not a creature was stirring, not even a Great Pyrenees.
The stockings they knit were hung on the gates with great care,
In hopes that Sheep Nicholas soon would be there;
The sheep were nestled all snug in their beds,
While visions of fruit loops danced in their heads,
And Jim in his jammies, and I in mine too,
Had just settled in for a good night’s sleep-
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter,
I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.
Away to the barn I flew like a flash,
Tore open the doors, and turned on the lights.
The moon on the rest of our snow now turned mud,
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below;
When, what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a minature sleigh, and eight spitty llamas,
With a fluffy little driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be Sheep Nick.
More rapid than eagles his llamas they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and call'd them by name:
"Now! Dalai, now! Max, now! Chaquita, and Doneghy,
”On! Obama, on! Radar, on! VanGogh and Sinbad;
"To the top of the gates! to the top of the barns!
"Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
So up to the barn-top the llamas they flew,
With the sleigh full of fruit loops - and Sheep Nicholas too:
And then in a twinkling, I heard on the roof
The prancing and pawing of each little hoof.
As I drew in my head, and was turning around,
Down the hay chute Sheep Nicholas came with a bound:
He was dressed all in wool, from his head to his hoof,
And his wool was all tarnished with ashes and soot;

(he should wear a coat like the rest of our sheep!)
A bundle of fruit loops was flung on his back,
And he looked like a sheep shearer just opening his pack:
His eyes - how they twinkled! his dimples how merry,
His cheeks were fuzzy, his nose oh so cute;
His sweet little mouth was drawn up in a smile,
And the beard of his chin was as white as a lambie,
He had a broad face, and a little round belly
That shook when he laughed, like a bowl full of fruit loops:
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old sheep,
And I laughed when I saw him in spite of myself;
A wink of his eye and a twist of his head
Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread.
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose
And giving a nod, outside he did go.
He sprung to his sleigh, to his llamas gave a whistle,
And away they all flew, like the down of an alpaca:
But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight-
Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night.

(PS- no more sheep jumpin’ on the BED!)

Merry Christmas from Jim, Sandy and the sheep

Another sheepy jingle!

2011-12-23T08:36:00.000-08:00

And it goes a little something like this!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Everywhere you go

Take a look at the barn and farm

Glistening ice again

With Fruity Loops and silver fences a-glow!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Grain in every stocking

But the prettiest site you'll see

Is the woolies that will be

At your own front door!

Leg warmers and cute little boots

Are the hope of Ruby & clan

Sheep that don't talk but will go for a walk

Is the hope of Dalai Llama

And San & Jim can hardly wait

For calm to reign again!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Everywhere you go

There's a tree in the big sheep barn

One in the yard as well

The sturdy kind that doesn't mind

Boxes of Fruit Loops on every bough!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Soon the bed-lamb will start

And thing that makes sheep sing

Is the joy you all bring

For the whole year round!

(they worked really hard at this song! bwaaahahahahaha!)

I love my sheep!

Silver Sheep, Silver Sheep....

2011-12-21T09:39:00.000-08:00

The sheep have written a little holiday jingle for you- and it goes a little something like this:

Silver sheep, silver sheep

It's Christmas time on the fa-arm.

Ring-a-ling, hear them cheer,

Soon it will be Christmas Day.

Sheepie barns, busy paddocks

Dressed in fruit loopy style

In the air there's a feeling of Christmas.

Llamas laughing, storms a passing

Meeting sheep after sheep,

Soon it will be Christmas Day!

(Fleece Navidad everyone! Stay tuned for another sheepie jingle tomorrow!)

Smooch!

My best friends Mary & Joseph....

2011-12-10T19:19:00.000-08:00

Every holiday seems to find my friends Mary, Joseph & me traveling to bring home a needy critter. Last year it involved horses the day after Thanksgiving. This year we welcome to the family Jasper, Lola and their baby Christmas Jingles- Jingles for short.

Jasper (brown/white) and Lola (white). Jingles baby is hiding behind Lola before the ride home to Mary & Joseph's farm.

Lola (and Jasper) need a haircut....

Smile for the camera Jasper! (this was taken at Mary & Joseph's)

Lola.... (at Mary & Joseph's)

And last but not least, Christmas Jingles, a sweet baby holiday present...

This little llama family traveled a long, weary road to get to Mary & Joseph. Now they are all safe, warm and will be adored for the rest of their little lives by my best friends.

Thank you both for taking them in and loving a few more llamas in need. And for letting me help you bring them home....

Joy to the Wooled!

2011-11-29T07:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I looked outside to see our little Trillium sheep hopping around like a sheep with something caught around her back legs? I about had a heart attack- Trillium was born with 3 legs- and a very short fourth leg that is not useable. Sent the hubby out (in his nice clothes from work) and grabbed a pair of scissors before I raced out there.

Turned out there was no problem with her legs, she was just having fun! I have seen her play, but not jumping up in the air and doing burn outs! She was quite acrobatic for a three legged sheep!

THEN Trillium decided her best friend Molly (our other 3.5 legged sheep girl) needed to get moving and join the fun. Molly was not happy about it but she did do a couple laps of the paddock just to get make Trillium happy.

The sheep are always good for my soul, but yesterday, seeing all that 'joy to the wooled' happy made it seem like the holidays are indeed here.... I adore my sheep. Even if they do give me a good heart attack once in a while!

The coats are on the coats are on!!!

2011-11-08T07:11:00.000-08:00

Sunday we got the last of the sheep all stylin' their new coats! This is Jolly, he was not sure about things at first but now he is pretty proud of his winter look! It was quite a morning with the sheep Sunday, they love to play 'tag' and we get tired faster than they do. Jim and Ross took 'one for the team' too. (they are fine though). Jim was going to catch one of our big Romney sheep and the sheep decided to do the zig and zag. He managed to almost get past Jim, who would not let go so got dragged along a little! Eek! Jim was pretty determined so he ended up hanging on and a coat was added to that silly sheep!
Ross (son) had quite a fancy event- he was working on catching a very small Romney (Violet). She must have caught my 6'4" Ross just right because he went air born and even did a few flips before he hit the ground? Very acrobatic! We all had a good giggle and decided we need video cameras. One to catch us all and a sheep cam- that must have looked pretty funny to them. I think I heard them laughing- stinkers!

This is my Piper sheep- doesn't he have the cutest face ever? He loves me best, always has and loves a good smooch and hug! Mind you the sheep are not agressive in any way. When they play 'tag', they are just determined not to be caught. We only have this issue with our sheep who are not as tame as the rest of them.

This would be one of our Shetland sheep Claire. She and her Shetland buddy Bram would NOT come in even for grain Sunday? Whahaat? We'll be fixing that situation when the hay is brought over tomorrow. The sheep are very single minded when it comes to food. That allows us to lurk and sneak in on them- that will let us get their coats on them- again. I see Spirit managed to ditch his too? Never a dull moment!
Hope your week is going well and thank you for stopping by- be sure to sign up for the new Coats for Sheep newsletter at the top of this page ok?
Chow for now peeps!
http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Mini-Skeins!

2011-11-04T08:34:00.000-07:00

Well, the sheep had a fun idea- all in an effort to reduce my shameful stash of handspun yarn.... again. They are really putting their feet down on me..... again. Stinkers! They spent some time in the fiber palace winding up 1 yard mini-skeins of my handspun. I think the skeins are so cute!

We added the skeins as sets on the website- we don't have the link set yet so til we get that done later on today you can find the skeins here: http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/shop/mini_skeins.htm

You will receive the exact skeins pictured in each listing. Each skein includes at least 10 yards (bulkier weights) and up to 20++ yards in others. A fun Crazy Quilt gathering of sampler yarns the sheep think would be great for trim work, felting, doll hair and Hexi Puffs. (yes, they are hooked on Hexi Puffs now!)

Happy weekend everyone, hope you will stop by and say hello- smooches from the fruit loop sheep!

Welcome to the family!

2011-11-01T13:31:00.000-07:00

This is another sweet Romney sheep who retired here from our friends the McNair's famous flock! ;0) Her name is Foon and she is related to the other Romneys in our flock. Squeee! She is still a little confused, she lived her whole life with McNairs so being uprooted can be stressful. Her new friends, Curly Sue, Bettis and clan were glad to meet her and welcome her. She has a coat on to keep her wool nice and clean.

This is Foon with her twins last spring- aren't they adorable? McNair's llama keeps a good eye on everyone too- that llama is amazing- she is over 20 years old! We are so happy to have Foon here, she loves a good chat, scratches and of course a little grain for supper. Thank you Ruth for letting Foon retire here- we adore her AND you!

A perfect ending to a perfect day!

2011-10-19T07:42:00.000-07:00

Can't get much better than this......

And then there were coats!

2011-10-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

And here is why we are so excited about coats! We started putting the winter coats on the sheep Sunday- we have about 1/3 of them on. Squeeee! This is a picture of Amelia's Cotswold curls before we put her coat on. Ooh la la right? The sheep's fleeces will be awesomely clean when we shear in April- thank you all again. We will be sending pictures to each of the sheeps' sponsors in the next few weeks so you can see how 'your sheep' is doing. They are so stylin'!

This is Miss Amelia- sporting her new coat, toes trimmed and a haircut around her pretty eyes. We'll be watching the sheeps' coats through the winter to be sure they are not too tight, some may need a bigger size as the wool grows.

Amidst all the fashion extravaganza, the sheep managed to post an update to the website too! These are beautiful locks available, and there are many other dyed locks, roving and fleeces to browse!

They also added new handspun yarn- designed specially by them. This is Crazy Quilt Pearls- 2 ply bulky, thick and thin with hand strung vintage beads. The beads reminded the sheep of fresh water pearls. (they are plastic). Hope you will have a chance to visit the site, we will be sending the sheeps' new newsletter out this week too- lots of coat news and smooches from the sheep too!

Chow for now peeps!
http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

A Sheep Parade!

2011-09-22T09:40:00.000-07:00

And a Sandy complex!

Sometimes the sheep want me to read them a good detective story. And of course that involves a big bowl of Fruit Loops and a sleeping bag to sit on. And by that I mean THEY sit on the sleeping bag, me- on the ground. It is so cute because they just keep leaning on me and scooching me over. They tell me they remember having soft blankets when they were bottle lambs in the house. All makes sense!

Every day we have a sheep parade- several times a day. I LOVE a sheep parade! They follow each other single file to the big pasture. This is a bunch of sheep who think it is time, even though we have not visited yet? You go first, no YOU go first!

Oh for goatie's sake! Simon says- let's get a move on before she shuts the big gate!

And the sheep parade moves out- and very few stops to visit on the way? There in lies the Sandy complex! They sure are paranoid don't you think? Or is it me? They must know Fall is here. They will want to savor the green grass before it is gone.

Although, maybe they also know it is time to wear their winter coats???? Could be- we are going to be putting their coats on next weekend. Hmmmm, wonder who told on me? ;0)

MAYBE they just think I need a good long walk- I think I will go take them up on their 'offer'......

smooches!

Oh my! Will the sheep fire me?!

2011-09-10T10:07:00.000-07:00

Dalai Llama might apparently! Uh oh! Better stock up on Fruit Loops rigth? ;0)

Been a wild summer here as usual. Working on getting hay situated for winter and getting projects done before winter. The sheep are enjoying pasture life and awaiting their turns to style it up in their new winter coats. We will probably be putting the coats on the sheep sometime in the next month- you can sign up for the special (free) newsletter on the left side of this blog to keep track of their activities til shearing time. Whaahat? Can it BE time for Sandyrella Princess of Farm Drama to start fussing about shearing??? In March? Oh let's hope not! ha!

We've added lots of new fiber and yarn to the website, and there is always more to follow. The sheep have been working hard to do weekly updates. Even if they don't feel like they have 'enough done' for a giant one! Go sheep!

Hoping you are all staying safe and sending good thoughts for better weather and no fires for everyone. Thinking of you and wishing better days for you too.....

Smooches from the sheep!

What a difference a day makes!

2011-08-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

Last night I was happy, overwhelmed, weepy and humbled- all at the same time. Yesterday our goal was met to provide a coat for each of our sheep this winter- thank you all for sponsoring coats and sheep! Thank you does not seem like enough to say, we truly appreciate each and every one of you. Thank you so so much....

When I told the sheep, they immediately started up the Fruit Loop Margaritas and donned their party hats. This is Keebler, leader of most parties, sporting his cool top hat- doesn't he look cute? I thought we had enough party hats to go around, but I saw a few sheep (and llamas) with lampshades too. Hmmmmm.

Keebler was a stylin' last night!

It must have been a grand old party last night, since THIS is what I found this morning- a Keebler that not only looked very hung over, but he refused to give up his hat. I think he wanted a lamp shade too- and a nice soft place to sleep? Oh Keebs.

Still stylin', but hiding out...

Wow! I should have partied outside too right? I also found a few empty cases of Fruit Loops? What a mess they have to clean up....

So, again, thank you all, the sheep are so lucky to have you all for friends to help watch over them and care for them. A special thanks to Brittany and Carrie for coming up with this idea, then setting the sheep's FUNdraiser up.

The sheep will be sporting their coats as soon as we have to start feeding hay. We will be sending and sharing LOTS of pictures- then sharing lots and lots of beautiful, clean fleece in the Spring! I really can't say enough how much all of you peeps mean to us- the sheep send you many many (sloppy fruit loop margarita) kisses and hugs.

What a difference a day makes........

Sandy & Jim Ryan

When Sheep Make Executive Decisions.....

2011-07-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

it is a good thing for all of you! ;0)

The sheep got together and decided we needed to adjust our prices to address the weather related issues we are having on the farm. We have not had rain for weeks and our pastures/hayfields are literally toast! In light of that, the sheep are having a 'rain dance' price reduction on all fiber and yarn (does not include unwashed wool).

The idea of feeding hay so early in the year is not fun- but since we have almost met our FUNdraising goal for sheep coats, we should be able to get them all coated up before they have to have hay. Thank you everyone for your sponsorship of the sheep- you are awesome! http://www.gofundme.com/coatsforsheep

Hope you will stop on by and have a browse- if you are looking for yarn (we are re-vamping the yarn pages and links are not officially hooked up yet), just scroll down to the site map, you will see the links there. The yarn will be listed by weight i.e. Aran, Bulky, etc... http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Hope you are all happily fibering away, and as always, thank you for supporting the sheep- they send you many many fruit loop-ie smooches!

sandyrella

Winding my weekend......into one skein of thought

2011-07-10T07:55:00.000-07:00

Most of you probably know I snuck out to the Midwest Folk and Fiber fest in IL two weekends ago? I had to reflect on that weekend, it was so packed with fun! Fun people, fiber and classes! Where should I start??

I got to spend the weekend with my good friend Ellen- at her Palace Ellen on the lake! It is such a cozy, quiet cottage- I hope to spend some time there with her again very soon- thank you Ellen for putting up with me!

I took 3 classes, 2 with the famous Jacey Boggs! She and I go way back and it was wonderful to meet her in person! She is a wonderful person and great teacher. I learned to corespin, work with beehives AND did NOT learn to spin boucle. Grrr. No fault of Jacey's, just cannot GET it. Need to practice practice and practice some more- right Jacey?

Be sure to check Jacey out- she has a new book coming out this fall along with a new handspinning video. You can find her at http://www.insubordiknit.com/ . She also offers weekend classes all over the USA and the world. If she comes to your area sign on up- you will love her!

I also got to meet friends that the sheep have known for sometime, again, great to see all of you in person! Hugs all around!

I also met Conni Togel of http://www.charisma-art.com/ - I swear she is painting my own sheep and the things they think up. Conni used to have a flock of sheep and had to re-home them. Now they inspire her paintings. Just too cool!

The last class Ellen, Diane and I took was Stefania Isaacson's spinning for socks class. It was awesome and so is she! I have to practice and get the blends right- but am on my way. You can find her at http://www.stefania-spins.com/ !

I learned a lot there, and as you know I can go on and on. (but I will try not to!). Diane taught me to use a support spindle, and made me one to take home. She also suggested I use my wallpaper brush as a burnishing brush for my batts/carder. That is the best tip I have ever had for my carder! Now I am able to card up 10 ounce + batts- even including alpaca! My carder is so great, but it had a bad habit of spitting alpaca all over the room. Not good, but we have that all fixed!

Hope you are all enjoying your Sunday- and thank you again to all the people who made my sneak away weekend so special...

Later today the sheep are going to update the website- hope to see you there! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

We are over halfway to coating our entire flock! You guys are awesome! If you'd like more info about our Coats for Sheep FUNdraiser, please have a visit:
http://www.gofundme.com/coatsforsheep

Smooches from the sheep!

I'm spinnin' from a cloud.....

2011-06-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

just a spinnin' from a cloud, what a glorious feeling.... (well, you get the rest!) Have YOU ever spun yarn or felted from a cloud of silky shiny wool? The sheep highly recommend it! ;0)

Sophie washed her beuatiful chocolate/silver Rambouillet fleece, then I ran it through the carder- ta-da- Clouds!

We also send fiber off to http://www.argylefibermill.com/ to be carded into clouds. This our Romney clan wool, blended with alpaca and llama fiber. They use a de-hairing machine (one step short of carding into roving) so almost all of the guard hair is removed. Soft and easy to spin, felt or?

Clouds pictured above can dye up like this- again, the sheep picked a sultry colorway- must be the cloudy gloomy days we are having here?

This is one of my single ply Crazy Quilt yarn, hand spun from our Crazy Quilt picked fiber. It includes the Leicester Longwool and Sophie fiber, blended with lots and lots of bling and add-ins.

Two ply yarn spun from Sara's Leicester Longwool sheep....

A glorious silky cloud of a fleece- from my friend Sara's Leicester Longwool sheep! I handspun this fiber into 2 ply yarn that is pictured further down the page...

Sophie dyed her fleece a moody, sultry color- the natural chocolate/silver of her fleece will give projects a heathered appearance.... ooh la la!
All you need to do is decide whether you want to try blending the clouds with other fiber for batts; spin the fiber right out of the bag; felt it or or or ! Just have fun- and remember, if I can do this, ANYone can! Hope you are all enjoying a wonderfully fibery, yarnie weekend! Smooches from the sheep!
(all of the fiber and yarn is available on our website: http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/) If you have any questions please email the sheep any time! ryan3@tds.net

An important note from the Homestead Sheep

2011-06-02T20:15:00.000-07:00

It has come to our attention that someone continues to contact our customers, claiming to be my business partner- among other things. This is not the first time we have had to deal with her but the extent of her brazenness has become ridiculous and shameful. I would like to clarify the following:

1) I do not now, nor have I ever had a business partner (besides my husband and son)

2) I would NEVER give ANY one your personal information.

3) I am not divorced.

4) I am never too busy for my customers- asking her to supply products for you in my place would never, never happen.

5) We are/were not neighbors.

6) We do not, never did, never will work together. Period.

7) We were ‘friends’ many years ago, until the sneaking around behind my back was revealed by our customers, after which I put an end to the ‘friendship’. Over 5 years ago.

8) Her name is NOT Sandy or Sandy Ryan, but she allows people to think so.

I am sad that this situation continues, but her bitterness is causing the sheep’s customers to wonder what the heck is going on here at our Homestead. If any of you have been or are contacted by her, please let me know asap. I am happy to answer any questions you have about our farm, or claims she is making.

My family and I have spent many years working hard to establish a dependable, honest wool business. Our sheep are our life and they depend on us to only send you gorgeous fiber. Any issues brought to our attention are promptly addressed to avoid misunderstandings or hard feelings about ANY of our products at the Homestead.

It would be very helpful if you would let us now if this has happened to you in the past or recently- or even after this note! Your information will be kept strictly confidential. If you are comfortable sending us information, please email me at the farm ryan3@tds.net or call me at 608-966-3943.

The sheep and I hope you will continue to be confident in your dealings with the Homestead (and me). We truly appreciate each and every one of you!!

Thank you,

Sandy Ryan and the Homestead Sheep

ryan3@tds.net

www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com

608-966-3943

Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival!

2011-05-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

Are you going to Maryland this weekend??? If so, have a wonderful time! I can't get there but the sheep are- they sent our friend Sara fiber and yarn for her booth. Squeee!

This sweet little Lacey Lambie will show you all the goodies in Sara's booth- Sara raises rare Leicester Long Wool sheep so watch for her fleeces for lots of curls- all you tailspinners!!!

Sara's booth is in Barn 4, Booth 5! Hope you can stop on by!

Have a great weekend everyone and happy shopping! We will be having a ginormous fleece update next week- off to sort more fleeces! Chow for now peeps!

Shepherdess from the black lagoon????

2011-05-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

A picture sometimes says it all!

Mud, bleh Swan (shepherdess dive-clumsy). double bleh.
Need I say more???

Chow for now peeps!

It's the most wonderful season...... of all!

2011-04-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

.... all those sheepies for shearing

We're up and out early

When the shearer does call

It's the hap happiest season of all!

(Bobbi the Great Pyrenees is ready to shear!)

(YOU go first, NO, YOU go first!)

(last year's shearing day baby- Pixel!)

There'll be lunches for hosting

No coats 'cause we're roastin'

And hoping it will not snow

There'll be silly sheep stories

And tales of the glories

Of shearings of long long ago...

It's the hap happiest time of the year!

(Our Hershey the Shetland napping in the sun after his haircut and lunch)

There'll be fleeces for sortin'

And all of us knowing

Our hinders will drag out of here slow

But be of good cheeeer

It's the hap happiest time of the year!

(Bobbi is exhausted-almost done shearing and our Devlyn the Scottish Black Face is trying to get her to let him escape!)

*shearing day blogpost number 2 to follow!*
Happy shearing season everyone- happy karma fleeces to follow too- asap!

smooches from the nekkid sheeps!
http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Fiber update Monday!

2011-03-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! Hope your week is off to a great start! The sheep got busy and their fiber update is ready for browsin'- hope you stop on by! Here is just a little bit of the new fiber they added:

Our Speedy's Lincoln x locks (unwashed)

Cheers! Corriedale wool

Pink Slippers Roving! (rare British Suffolk wool)

Our Greta & Arthur's Shetland wool + Suri Alpaca (roving)

Our sweet Arthur, a gorgeous Shetland sheep!

Smooches from the sheep everyone and have a great week! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Have you seen this fun March Madness giveaway??

2011-03-26T08:41:00.000-07:00

Knit Purl Girl has a great March Madness giveaway going on right now- be sure to check it out! There are many wonderful items you can win- including a Crazy Quilt Batt from the sheep! Lots of fun to see and a variety of prizes- don't miss out- come on over and meet some new artist/designer friends!

http://www.knitpurlgurl.com/2011/03/march-madness-giveaway-homestead-wool.html

Smooches from the sheep and happy weekend everyone!

Holy roving batt man!

2011-03-23T10:40:00.000-07:00

The sheep and I are just rolling in roving! Shari (Morro Fleece Works) is on a roll and a LOT of fiber came home over the past few weeks. Yeeha! Only thing is, we have not had time to get it all listed on the site... SO, a few pictures of roving that IS on the site:

Our Angus & Greta's Shetland Roving

Here is a list of what we have here 'in waiting' so if you see something that you are interested in, please email us at ryan3@tds.net !

Natural colored roving:
*Our Baaxter & Snowflake (Romney)+Ami's Cotswold - 4 pounds available

*Our Patch (Lincoln x)+Goliath (Merino x)+Romney clan - 8 pounds available

*Corriedale & 'mystery wool' blend- 3 pounds available

*Beige Suri Alpaca + North Country Cheviot- 3 pounds available

*North Country Cheviot - 4 pounds available

*Our Romney clan - 5 pounds available

*Our Great & Arthur's Shetland wool + Suri Alpaca- 3 pounds available

We have lots of roving (dyed and natural) on the website AND Etsy so be sure to check it out- and the above roving will hit the site asap! Thanks for your patience and smooches from the sheep!

A few new things, a few old ones!

2011-03-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

I am starting today with this cute picture of two of our oldest sheep girls! Just don't tell them I said they were old ok? We purchased Shannon (black Shetland) and Willow (cinnamon Merino x) from a friend many years ago. We were amazed then at how close they were, even though they were part of a larger flock. Today, they stay that close, kind of their own little 'family' or sisterhood inside of our flock. Sheep's devotion to each other is life long. Sheep in our flock that arrived pregnant and had lambs, still keep their babies close, even after they grow up. I love that sheep have families they love and stay close to. It really is amazing....

The sheep have just launched their first ever Crazy Quilt Yarn Club! There is limited space available for this one and you can find all the fun info on our website:

http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/shop/pid_2216.htm

The yarn shows is an example of our Crazy Quilt Yarn- every skein will be different and no two alike. Each skein will include 100+ yards and will be single ply. The first club is for a two month membership- we will be adding more as we go along!

The sheep have been sneaking around a bit online- they now have a Sneaky Sheep shop on Artfire! It is a place the sheep are offering 'secret' discounts and such- a good place to keep an eye on, the sheep LOVE a good discount or ???

http://www.artfire.com/users/homesteadwoolandgiftfarm

So much fun stuff going on here this Spring it is hard to smoosh it into one post.... watch for more info, more often! We just updated the website and etsy yesterday so hope you will stop on by! Smooches from the sheep and chow for now!

Aaaand it's an update!!!

2011-02-22T16:04:00.000-08:00

The sheep updated the website and etsy shop with lots of gorgeous dyed locks, washed locks, natural and dyed roving too!

Frosty's Sun Comet - http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Piper Blues (our Piper Romney) http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Our Riley's 'King's Treasure' (Shetland/Merino x) http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Rhubarb Patch Roving (our Romney clan) http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Tuxedo Roving #3- http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ and http://www.crazyquilthomestead.etsy.com/

Rare Scotch Mule Sheep Roving! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ and http://www.crazyquilthomestead.etsy.com/

Our Morgan's Tunis wool/alpaca fiber roving blend! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ and http://www.crazyquilthomestead.etsy.com/

Our Samuel's Washed Romney wool! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ and http://www.crazyquilthomestead.etsy.com/

The sheep are keeping the dyepots a smokin' and the wool a washin' so be sure to browse this week's update- they are already working for next weekend! Smooches and chow for now peeps!

Rescue Me.....

2011-02-16T13:07:00.000-08:00

One day, a long time ago, a little red horse found her way into my family and stole our hearts forever. She was six months old, an accidental baby that nobody really wanted. They would never DREAM of showing an Arabian/Quarter Horse cross. Ugh. Long story short, Charisma (Crissy for short) was offered to my parents- to give to me. Mom was not so sure, only because she knew who would be driving me to the barn every day. Dad PROMised to help. He did, but most days it was Mom, dropping off an often cranky 11 year old to let Crissy work her magic. She tells me I always came home happy, tired and of course smelling like horses.

Crissy went on to be a great show horse, tolerated pictures at Christmas time with my gloves on her ears for antlers and my endless love for just being with her. I am sure some days she was glad to see me go home!

Then along came Diamonte (Monte for short), an Argentine Thorobred who was not having such a great life on a polo team. We purchased him to get him out of the situation and to give Crissy a friend. He was 15 when he arrived. A sweet sweet bay horse with a little diamond of white on his forehead. The two became inseperable friends. When Crissy passed away at the age of 30 (about 6 years ago) Monte laid down near where she was buried and refused to get up, or to eat.

A scramble turned up a cute donkey named Cassper who moved in to attempt to perk Monte up and give him back his interest in life. Cassper was living with a dear friend who graciously let us buy this sweet little donkey). It worked! Cassper has his own set of issues, his mama was shot by a deer hunter when she was pregnant with Cassper. We think the bullet is lodged in his withers, making his back very very crooked. Cassper doesn't let it bother him at all. He has a very donkey attitude, is too smart for his own good and he loves to steal my hats and gloves in the winter time.... I always hope when he takes off with my hat that he will leave me with my hair! ha!

Monte passed away two years ago and was 35 years old. Cassper was very sad and although he did not quit on life, he was lost with out him. THEN, just in time came Cricket- a little throw away horse a friend rescued from a sale barn. I had sworn no more horses after Monte but this little girl's baby pictures looked just like Crissy's. How could I NOT bring her home? We drove with a friend all the way up to northern Minnesota and brought that sick little baby home. Things were touch and go but now she will be 3 and she is a beautiful, healthy girl, who loves her Cassper honkey donkey. (AND still looks like my Crissy-with longer legs).

This past Thanksgiving found us helping a friend trailer some horses out of a sad situation. Nobody wanted this beautiful, giant paint horse, locked away from the other horses, skinny and possibly pregnant. (do you see a pattern yet?) She is the size of a small draft horse and barely fit into a trailer. She walked right in. We thought she was 20 years old that first few weeks until I tracked down the first owners of Chelsea. Turns out, she is only FOUR years old. Sad in one way that in three years at the other place, she came out looking so old. In another way, four year old with no training is just perfect, she can work with Cricket this summer to be good horses (they are both 'babies' and need some manners- specially Chelsea!) and ready to take us trailing around the beautiful little valley we live in.

These beautiful creatures are my family, each of them came into my life at a time that seemed 'planned' by someone (karma??). I will miss Crissy and Monte forever. I still look out my windows expecting to see them. I do know I see Crissy looking back at me through Cricket and Chelsea's eyes. Each has uncanny habits and quirks that only Crissy ever had. I find comfort in the thought that some part of Crissy is still here with me.

So, while I may call what I do 'rescue', each of these beings rescue ME, every single day of my life.....

Bears Win! Bears Win!!!

2011-02-07T08:37:00.000-08:00

Oh sheepies.... they are insisting everyone watched the wrong game last night because of COURSE the Chicago Bears won. Of COURSE! (the sheep are staunch Bears fans)

Max llama (representing the llama/alpaca clan- who are staunch Packer fans) - oh no you DIDn't. The Packers won, weren't you watching the Jumbotron- you hogged the remote ALL afternoon. AND the Fruit Loop Margaritas. (apparently the Fruit Loop Margaritas are only a sheep favorite, Max tells me the llamas/alpacas only like Budweiser beer, since everyone loves the Budweiser Clydesdale stars).

Frosty sheep is just laughing at the llamas and alpacas, STILL this morning? They don't know WHAT they are talking about.... (oh sheepies)

Julia llama is REALLY tired of this. She said when balloons fly over the sheep pasture, MAYbe the Bears will win a superbowl game....

Ooopsie! That has already happened..... hmmmm

Then it was my sad duty to inform the sheep that the Packers had indeedy won the game- after this went on last night til 11 pm. Had to stop. They were looking so depressed and sad when I settled the bedlamb down and went back inside- to bed.

THEN, at midnight, what do I hear? The sound of hubby's Gatormobile being backed out of the garage??? I don't even think they had a designated driver but determined to bounce themselves out of their sadness, the tipsy sheep roared off for some major four wheelin' in the pastures.... I heard them go. Decided I would not go out unless I heard more bedlamb ensue. I also hoped they would not run it around til it ran out of gas, in the back 40. I did not want to trudge out, with a gas can and bring it home- all before hubby found out. Thankfully, they DID bring it back in time, AND parked it in the garage so 'nobody would find out'. snicker

This morning, the sheep are properly tired (aka hung over) and the llamas and alpacas are still lording the Packer's win over them. Andrew is tired, he had to stay up all night keeping an eye on his sheep- he is NOT happy. STOP the MADness- please Mom????

The sheep are stoic, sleeping through all the llama/alpaca teasing though. Let's hope this continues- no more brawling in the barns!

(despite all the hoopla, we have a major update on its way late today (probably this evening) with lots of pretty dyed fiber, roving and yarn- hope you will all stop on by!

http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

http://www.crazyquilthomestead.etsy.com/

Chow for now peeps!

Visitors from afar.....

2011-01-04T09:51:00.000-08:00

Have you heard the news??? Pal and Peanut were the stars of the show a few weeks ago! They told Brittany and Carrie all about the farm- and how 'piggy' the sheep are when they eat their Fruit Loops! (Pal is the tour guide pictured above)

The girls left happily packed with fiber- and we thank them so much for a fun afternoon, out in the cold and snow. AND for the giant bags of fruit loops they brought to share.

The very next day, I went out to feed the piggies their breakfast and whaaat? A pinwheel atop their little house? What could it mean???

Peanut explained they had ANOTHER visitor- their hero pig actor Maxwell from the Geico commercials? I knew they held Maxwell in high regards but apparently, Maxwell stopped for an overnight- and left a pinwheel so Peanut & Pal could ride around in the car, hanging out the window going wheee whee wheee all the way home! Better hide the truck keys huh?

La Miso Del Gallo....

2010-12-23T13:28:00.000-08:00

Our Dalai Llama

Each year the sheep and I love to read about holiday traditions in other cultures and parts of our world. Because we love our own Charlie Rooster, the llamas and alpacas brought this story to us. We hope we have captured the sweetness of this traditional story…

Christmas in Paraguay is celebrated in a deeply religious way. The main focus of the season is the pesebre or nativity scene which is found in both the home and in churches.

December is the summer season in South America, and there is a profusion of flowers growing everywhere at this time of year. Churches and homes are decorated in bright colors to match the flowers. On Christmas Eve, church bells beckon the people to church at midnight for La Misa Del Gallo, translated as Midnight Mass, or more literally the Mass of the Rooster.

Our Charlie rooster and his Chica

Legend has it that the Rooster’s Mass owes its name to the Rooster who would have been among the first to witness the birth of Jesus- and thus be the one to announce it.

In most Spanish speaking countries, Misa de gallo is a typical midnight mass starting around 12 am Christmas Eve. The Christmas feasting begins when family and friends return home from Mass.

We all wish you the very happiest holiday, spent with loved ones, safe travels and wonderful memories to keep in your heart!

Smooches to all, and to all a good night............

Warming up for winter!

2010-11-29T07:18:00.000-08:00

and STAYing that way! With some warmies designed by the sheep just for you.... Please stop by our website- no cold sheep fans allowed THIS winter! ;0)

Louis' Bomber Hat http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

A HobGoblin Hat! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Samuel's wristlets (Romney wool + alpaca) sold out

Fletcher's Mittens! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Laura's Stylin hat! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Louis' Mittens! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Hope you are all having a wonderful Monday and look forward to hearing from you when you have time- we will be posting new fiber, yarn and knitwear all week so stop on by! Smooches from the sheeps!

The sheep have been busy.....

2010-11-21T08:56:00.000-08:00

....playing, while I take photos- bwaaahahahaha! Welcome Aurora, our latest retiree from our friends the McNair's beautiful Romney flock- pictures soon! We just updated the website last night with new fiber, roving and handspun yarn. Hope you can stop on by- here is a little of what you will see: (http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ )

Bonanza Roving

Stevie Ray Fab! 2 ply yarn

Chanelle's Shadow 2 ply!

Our Morgan's Tunis wool + our Radar's Llama fiber- roving!

Rustic Charm! roving

Crazy Quilt Glam! 3 ply bulky bulky

Sort of a dreary, barely rainy day in sheepyville today. The sheep are snoozing, but wait- I think I hear the clinking of glasses?? Must mean the sheep are preparing Fruit Loop Margaritas for their football Sunday- already?? Really sheep? Keep your fingers crossed they will not be brawling out there by noon ok? (or I may join them!) Happy Sunday everyone- hope you are enjoying your day! http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Wordless Tuesday!

2010-11-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

no fire, just a pretty sunset, oopsie- words?!

If you know me at all, you will know how utterly impossible it is for me to do a wordless post.... snicker! Smooches from the flock!

http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/

Did Sweet Little Emma Sheep Spin THIS yarn????

2010-11-11T14:18:00.000-08:00

Our Emma retired with us a few years back when her owner's health forced her to re-home her flock of sheep. Emma was her favorite and we soon learned why! She is a sweet girl who loves hugs, me AND of course- Fruit Loops!

Emma was sleepy when I took this photo- she looks all innocent doesn't she? However, she loves to design yarn- and she has a flair for 'magic'.....

Emma had some 'help' with findings for this yarn. My Mom and her friends are secret shoppers for the sheep, always on the look out for yarn, fabric and goodies that work into our yarns. This yarn is a combination of techniques that I love to spin. Emma dyed up her pretty, soft soft fiber and had me spin a single ply of our 'snaggletooth' yarn (has loops). The second ply started out as a novelty yarn, long since out of 'style', over which she had me spin more ofher lovely fiber. Put them together and wa-laa- "Emma's Snaggletooth' yarn. Emmal also wants to be very clear- she does NOT have snaggleteeth! ;0)

Another of Emma's yarns, spun the same as the first, this time with a different novelty yarn involved- looks like little bows or flowers doesn't it?

This skein is called Shadowspun Emma!

The other sheep had to get in the snaggletooth designing too! This is a yarn they named 'Remix'. Again, a combo of snaggletooth and shadowspun handspun.

I LOVE finding new uses for found objets and am very hooked on spinning this type of yarn. Hope you will stop on by and see all the new yarn the sheep just added to the website- http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ . Working on updates as we speak, plan to be done by tonight (Thurs 11/11)!

Smooches from the sheep- specially Emma!

Just Plain BATTY!

2010-11-10T07:12:00.000-08:00

Yep, that's me today- just plain batty.... have mega pics to re-take because I forgot a few important things yesterday.... Bet you are all sick of my whining huh? ;0) Here are some batty photos that DID turn out ok!

Josie's Crazy Quilt Batt #3 (inside)!

Josie's Crazy Quilt Batt #3 (outside)!

I have more batts ready to go, will be adding them to the sheeps' website, http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ tonight- don't miss out! More pictures asap! Yarn AND more batts! Smooches from the sheep and have a great day!

Fiber and Yarn update!

2010-11-04T14:30:00.000-07:00

The sheep have been busy! (ha!) Just added some new fiber to the website and etsy shop, will be adding yarn and roving later this evening....

Our Willow's Crazy Quilt! (will be listed on the website- http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ )

Sultry! (East Fresian locks- dyed- available on the website http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ )

Pirate's Loot! (mohair/angora goat locks- available on the website- http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ )

Our Chance's Crazy Quilt! available in our Etsy shop- http://www.crazyquilthomestead.etsy.com/

Hope to see you there- keep an eye out for more roving and yarn!! OH, and hand knit/handspun items to keep you warm and toasty too! Smooches from the sheep!

Rolling out the shopping cart!

2010-10-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

Most of you are aware of the sheep's decision to add a shopping cart to their website? We just finished up all the coding and away we roll- tee hee!

Must add though, the sheep often make executive decisions about the website. I think after deciding to add the shopping cart, they also added an addendum to say NO SHEEP will help Sandy get the techno aspects accomplished. I spent a few weeks asking 'where ARE my techno sheep when I need them?' Then I decided the are lucky they are cute because I cannot stay mad at them for even a second.... still, just sayin'!

The sheep have taken over in the fiber palace again though- they've gone batty! bwaaahahaha! We are still adding lots of fiber and yarn so hope you will stop on by. They are even launching their new fall fashion line- lots of warmies for fall/winter and gifts...

Hope you can all stop by and have a browse- help us roll out the barrell- bwaaahahahahaha! (just don't let those sassy sheep push me in the cart- over the hill!) Smooches from the sheep!

Homestead Wool And Gift Farm

Do you see what I see?

2010-10-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

A fleece, a fleece, lurking in my stash...... Which would be why the sheep are currently kicking my hiney to get my ridiculous stash 'under control'- but is it EVER that? (usually not-ha ha sheep!)

BUT, do you see what I see? To me it would be impossible to choose my favorite part of fiber work, but sorting a pretty fleece has to be right up at the top. It might seem weird, a dirty fleece with such a wonderful smell- outdoors and of my sweet sweet sheeps. It is like having them right in my fiber palace with me while I work, sorting each fleece lock by lock to be sure only the best reach our customers' projects.

I see evidence of my sheeps' gleeful, purposeful ability to ignore our 'clean fleece' rules. They know I strictly enforce our number ONE rule- happy sheep- the others are simply 'requests'. I find flakes of hay deposited by larger sheep eating their lunch over the top of the smaller sheep. A stray oat that was not vacuumed up by hungry sheep- eating like they have not eaten for days? And for those of you know are familiar with our little flock, NObody is anywhere near hungry.

I can see a sheep that has been sick at some point in the past year-breaks in the fleece indicate fever, illness, lambing or a change in feed. Long beautiful locks that are healthy and strong from good food. Natural fading at the tips of the locks from lazy days of napping in the sun.

We also sell for and purchase from other little animal friendly flocks- their fleeces also tell me their stories. Some live down the road, some far away. Some sheep we know live on a golf course. Some wear jackets, some do not. A glimpse of a sheep who is obviously top of the food line or the rascal sheep who is always into something. Most of all, I can see the kindness and love provided by the sheep's owners.

Be careful or you might miss the special story all rolled up in a sheep's fleece. Some things you just can't see with your eyes.

Come visit us at Graham & Margaret's this weekend!

2010-09-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

Whahaaaat? Party at Graham & Margaret's you say? Come on out and meet up with some gorgeous sheep, see Graham's working Border Collies in action and spinning demo by me.

Activities at Little Dale Farm are set for 2 to 4 pm, Saturday, October 2, 2010

(photo credit: Melony Howard, Milwaukee, WI)

Be sure to check the website for directions- you can find them (and more info) at http://www.littledalefarm.com/ or email me at ryan3@tds.net !

(photo credit: Melony Howard, Milwaukee, WI)

North Country Cheviot, Scotch Mule Sheep and British Suffolk will all be at the party- come see some rare breed sheep. They are native to Graham & Margaret's homes in England and Scotland- and a treasure here in the USA.

The fun is scheduled from 2 to 4 pm, Saturday October 2nd, 2010- don't miss out! The event is coordinated with Richland Center activities for the weekend- lots to do and visit- definitely a fun Saturday- hope to see you there! ;0)

www.littledalefarm.com or email me at ryan3@tds.net if you have questions!

The cart before the sheep???

2010-09-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

REALLY???? Well, the sheep took a vote- EVERYone of the Ryan critter crew decided it was time to add a shopping cart to their website.... I have been avoiding doing so, mainly because I do not like big changes- and this is a BIG one! The sheep threatened to make me walk the plank if I did not co-operate, so in the interest of not getting fired, I caved.

Work is under way as we speak to install the shopping cart- our update will be a little delayed this week while I get this under control. Wish me luck! I thought MAYbe the sheep would/should help me get this computer work done? I asked and this is what followed:

Um, Mom, can't you see we are tired and busy having a good nap???

We caaannnn't hear you....

La la la......

Anyone INSIDE want to help me out? Libby - nope.

Noodle- definitely not.
SO, guess that's my answer huh? Better get back to work! Just wait til they all want treats right? I might have an entire box of Fruit Loops myself- hope they stocked up this week.... bwaaahahahahaha!
More info to follow just as soon as we have the website all set to go- until then you can shop and browse the website, the cart will not be visible yet.... Toodles!

Fun in the sun!

2010-09-17T14:46:00.000-07:00

well, TODAY was fun in the sun anyway! You probably all know how much I dread taking pictures of yarn and finished items? Well, I finally listened to everyone and went outside. Wanted to have a place in my studio to take pictures but looks like I should have listened MUCH sooner! Still some things to work out but love it so far....

Our Aina's Fall 'Bendy' yarn- dyed by Aina, handspun by me as a wire corespun skein...

Night Owl knitting- our 'signature' Crazy Quilt yarn- handspun by me and knit at night- when I hardly ever sleep....

Gadzooks! Boa scarf created out of soft, bouncy Corriedale wool from a friend's happy flock of sheep! Ooh la la!

Rare British Suffolk wool from our friends happy flock of WI sheep. Hand dyed and spun here at our farm into a single ply yarn, sort of bouncy, a hint of shine and just too fun!

Our Marie's Merino x wool, she dyed it up and I spun it onto a wire core- perfect for embellishment, doll creations, jewelry making.... more fun from the sheeps!

NOW you all better look out, the sheep and I are on our way to taking much better photos- giddy up and yeeeeha! Hope you all have wonderfully fibery, creative plans this weekend? Send the sheep an email and let us know what you are up to- any time ok? Smooches from the sheep!
http://www.homesteadwoolandgiftfarm.com/ or http://www.crazyquilthomestead.etsy.com/
farm email: ryan3@tds.net

A morning walk.....

2010-09-15T11:15:00.000-07:00

I am so lucky to live the life I do- and here are just a few reasons why.....

Snowflake, a Romney retiree who arrived 2 weeks ago....

Simon- retired here two weeks ago with his Romney friends Snowflake, Violet, Olivia and April....

And Max- a sweet llama who came to live with us a few years ago when his owner's health prevented her from keeping him.

I am blessed to have all my amazing critters- we shared extra Fruit Loop treats to celebrate our day!

The sheep got greedy- extra meant an entire extra BOX of Fruit Loops? Really? Maybe that is why Max looks so shocked??? tee hee

Along came Brady....

2010-09-14T14:36:00.000-07:00

Who is SO lucky I did not think of the name Tootsie before he was already Brady! A spring long ago found us helping our best friend on shearing day. The shearer was working away and along came a cute dark brown sheep- a yearling. This was supposed to be a group of girls you see- when this little cutie showed up for his haircut, finding a boy was quite a surprise! All neutered and masquerading as a girl?! Too funny and what an ingenius plan....

Long story short Brady ended up riding home with me- and 50 fleeces at the end of that day. He was a little on the wild side at first, but one day, he all of a sudden decided to be a lap sheep. He started eating Fruit Loops with the rest of the sheep and hanging about for hugs.

Brady has a beautiful fleece that has changed through the years to a very pretty, chocolate brown with silver threaded through. The locks average 3 to 4 inches long and he generally keeps his fleece very free of debris. The ends of the locks are of course cinnamon sun kissed because our sheep are happily romping outside year round with out jackets or coats (for now anyway!).

Brady's fleece is very medium to coarse in texture. When he sends his fleece to the mill for carding, he always picks out another fiber to soften it up. He does not try for next to the skin soft like Merino, just soft for hats, mittens and specially socks.

This yarn (not a great picture- too dark) is one Brady had me spin single ply- he blended it with pretty llama fiber from our friend Jen's happy flock. The yarn features really fun bounce- again, making it extra cool for socks....

And THIS is my sweet Brady now, all grown up into a big, happy sheep. He loves loves being hugged- and still thinks he is small enough to sit in my lap. On those days, I remind him how lucky he is not to be named 'Tootsie' after Dustin Hoffman's movie performance. He just giggles and calls me 'flat lap Sandyrella'..... gotta love it!

My Chat Room!

2010-09-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my chat room! ha! Well, should be my Chatter Room actually... This is my sweet Woolamina (aka Mina), my first ever sheep.

What does Mina have to do with a chat room you ask? The first time I had Mina sheared many years ago, people told me to just throw her beautiful fleece in the garbage???? Gasp. As usual, I did not follow directions and set out to learn to spin her fiber into beautiful things.

And along came a spinning wheel.... A very old spinning wheel that gave me fits while I tried to learn to spin on it. It took a month of constant practice (and lots of bad word saying) and I was ready to quit. BUT, since I already had my beautiful Mina, that would not do.

One day it finally clicked (after trying out a brand new wheel I borrowed). And I was off and spinning. In the beginning I tried to oil and polish this little wheel in hopes of reducing the noises it produced. It stubbornly held on to its chatter.

The it came to me- this little flax wheel from Russia, most likely over 100 years old, had seen many miles of spinning, many miles of travel to get to me. The many hands that touched this wheel had each left a story behind for the wheel to tell.

It is simply constructed, maybe from materials that were already available to the maker-maybe he did not have a lot of money to create a fancier wheel. Did he create this little wheel for his wife? Child? How many people became part of this wheel through a groove worn on each side of the flyer where so much fiber travelled from spinner's hand to bobbin? Where has this wheel travelled? Farm to farm to spin while someone wove fabric for clothes? Family gathering to family gathering? How many people helped create the permanent foot print worn gently into the treadle?

So my little wheel may be 'noisy' to some, but I like to call it the chatter of a wheel with a million stories to tell. A soothing chat at the end of a long day, a companion for nights of no sleep and a place to spin 'the bad out of me' when necessary.

Peace is being surrounded by quiet- with the chatter of a spining wheel. Becoming a part of the karma that is the soul of a very old, happy spinning wheel.

How do I love thee dogs?

2010-08-19T06:42:00.001-07:00

Let me count the ways.....

You love my sheep and protect them from evil doers.

You have an animal friendly 'agreement' with the coyotes, dogs and other intruders to stay safely on their side of your fences-which they highly respect.

AAAAND, you also look after and protect me. This morning with the help of our deaf Border Collie Noodle- yep, you heard right. Noodle woke me up this morning (at 4 a.m. no less) just incensed and barking her intruder bark. At almost the same moment, I heard what sounded like someone knocking at the door? Which would be how Noodle saw them. I really can move fast in some instances, always amaze myself! tee hee!

I heard two people talking outside, really hushed tones. At the same second I heard them, two white flashes FLEW down the driveway like they were chasing on the heels of the bats from hell. Son and I got quickly out the back door- the Border Collies went out like thunder, barking at the driveway fence. Bobbi and Andrew (the white streaks) were already up on our hill, and had chased whomever it was all the way UP that very steep hill.

I am thinking SOMEone had to clean out their trousers AND hope they made it past the farm on the other side of our hill unscathed. Their German Shepherds are very unappreciative of people stopping by THEIR farm too. We called out 'good dog' (we never use their names in front of anyone we don't know) and Bobbi and Andrew came galloping down to the yard We handed out treats and watched them play. They were SO happy with themselves and proud of their ability to protect the home front! They galloped, played and paraded around the circle drive for a bit, then went back home to resume watching over their sheep.

Now I never wish anyone harm, nor do I wish my dogs to bite or hurt anyone or anything. Bobbi and Andrew have had all their shots, but would be in way too much trouble- and our insurance would probably sky rocket.

THAT said, feeling safe in my own home, in this little piece of heaven is a gift. AND do you think they stopped running yet? giggle

Stay away bad guys.

Thanking God for my dogs......again.

Baaazinga! The party has begun!

2010-08-06T10:26:00.000-07:00

Zoiks! This is the first Baazinga Fiber Party hosted by the sheep- they have been working toward this for weeks, and the work is still ongoing. Figured we better get started or it would never happen! ha!

What is a Baazinga party? The sheep hate the word 'sale' so prefer discount party. Just one of their funny quirks. We rarely offer discounts so this is a great opportunity to stash up on beautiful fleeces- enable enable. We know our prices are lower than most people and we are not trying to undercut them, it just does not do Jenny, Mary or me anygood to have the fiber sitting on the shelves in the fiber palace. Specially with winter feed bills coming up shortly.... The proceeds for Mary & Jen's sales go directly back to their little flocks. Our fiber may be reasonably priced, but is VERY high quality and we are offering a large variety and quantity of fun goodies!
Here are the Baazinga guidelines for this week:
*includes only alpaca and llama fiber
*washed or unwashed only
*20% discount (does not include shipping charges)
*Etsy discounts refunded at time of purchase
**or happy to combine shipping between website & Etsy shop
*The sheep are happy to hold purchases but will require you to pay as you go until you are ready to have the fiber sent out to you
*sales- first email to the sheep first served
Looking for wool offerings? We added some of those too today so be sure to have a browse. (Baazinga only applies to washed/unwashed alpaca/llama fiber). The sheep love to wash fiber so if you would like them to wash your fiber for you, please email and let them know ok?
Please contactus with any questions at the sheep's email- ryan3@tds.net and keep an eye on the site/etsy- the sheep will be adding more fleeces (most likely daily) in order to keep up and reduce our shameful stash of fiber! tee hee! They are kicking my hiney on that matter.... help!
Homestead Wool & Gift Farm
Crazy Quilt Homestead
Hope to see you soon- email any time if you have other colors of alpaca/llama on your mind! We probably have it here- enable enable- smooches from the sheeps!

The sheep are writing a new column!

2010-07-25T14:38:00.001-07:00

Hope you will take a spin to the sheep's new column- and thank you for including our article too!! This is a great website- be sure to sign up for their newsletter while you are there?

http://www.naughtyknitterz.com/a-sheep-unto-its-own-by-sandy-ryan/

Smooches from the sheeps!

Hope, my favorite poem....

2010-07-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Hope is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul, And sings the tune--without the words, And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard; And sore must be the storm That could abash the little bird That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chillest land, And on the strangest sea; Yet, never, in extremity, It asked a crumb of me.

*Emily Dickinson

Encouraging filthiness amongst the flock??

2010-07-20T17:51:00.000-07:00

Whahaaat? Think Dalai Llama is laughing? Snickering? He started it when the weather was rainy, and he heard he was next in line for a hair cut. I think the sheep ratted me out on that one? Or was it Bobbi the Great Pyr? One never knows!

Dalai never rolls in the mud- but he sure did a good job that day. NOW the humidity/heat feels like 108 degrees lately so I am actually encouraging filthy llamas and alpacas? Go figure!

The favorite part of my day is to go out, turn on the water hose and watch the alpacas play- llamas splash in the pool (or water tanks) and just enjoy cooling off.

The bad part being, they then speed off to their favorite dust bowl- and gleefully roll over and over and over- getting up, giving a shake, and looking at me as if to say, 'how do you like me NOW mom?' ha! Even Bobbi & Andrew (g.pyrs) and Noodle & Libby (border collies) like a good splash in the hose. Peanut & Pal (pot belly pigs) LOVE a nice shower- in the pool they dug. Noodle likes their pool too- what a muddy mess THAT ends up being-it's all good though!

Name of our game is happy critters, just wish I could convince the sheep that a shower is refreshing- they do not agree. Although they WILL sleep/stand out in a good rain shower? Again, go figure! Hope you are all staying comfy and cool- but cleaner than the clan here! mwaaahahahaha!

Fighting the 'good fight'....

2010-07-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

with my camera, er, my inability to take a good yarn picture- much less a 'great' one! Can't really in all honesty blame my great little camera!

Worked on things in the light of late afternoon yesterday, still have work to do- next stop dyed and naturally colored yarns.

Wish me luck- the sheep are cracking the whip on me about this! (about time they say.)

Ode to a sheep.....

2010-07-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of our sweet Steeler sheep. We never knew exactly how old he was when he arrived all the way from Pennsylvania to join our flock. He arrived with 11 of his friends and as you can see below, he was very 'surprised' to be here!
This is his 'baby' picture. He was always the leader of his little family, they were not victims of anything but 'benign neglect', having been left to roam 150 acres when the owners' 20 sheep flock quickly (in 3 years) blossomed into 150+. The owners meant well but were unable to keep up with neutering and proper care of the flock. A neighboring rescue worked out a deal to trade for a portion of the owners' pasture land in exchange for placing the sheep and getting their medical care caught back up. They had not been handled much so were a little rowdy when they arrived.
After plying them with fruit loops we were eventually able to hug them up, all but two older boys that are much more shy- but they DO like their treats. As long as they are all happy, life is good. Steeler LOVED hugs and smooches on his wrinkly silky nose. He was a strong personality and took good care of his family, the flock- and me.

I hope I can learn to take life in stride- Steller did and when I put him to sleep this morning, he went as peacefully as he arrived at our farm. Calmly, stoic and wrapped in our arms. He lived a good life, I will cry- but the tears are good- if I ever get used to this part of our business, I need to get out.

Sleep well my sheep, I will miss you forever....

Dye your own roving? Check us out!

2010-07-12T13:32:00.000-07:00

The sheep have a bonanza of natural colored roving available that is perfect for any project, and they would love to get you dye your own peeps set up with the animal friendly fiber our sheep have to offer!!

The sheep listed plenty (I think they have over 40+ pounds available right now) on the website AND etsy- hope you can take a look. Their prices are reasonable and would allow for a nice markup for time spent/materials for dyeing too! Here are a few ideas to get you started!

Our Romney clan's natural ivory/white loose rovingNatural beige-y silver Coopworth roving from Jacob's sheep:

Natural fawn Mohair -loose roving from Mary & Joseph's goaties Hope you will browse on by, lots and lots of natural white/ivory roving AND hand/sheep dyed roving too! Chow for now peeps!

A belated Fathers Day post-with input from my favorite Father In Law!

2010-07-07T07:01:00.000-07:00

My father in law- Frank (aka Grandpa sticks-long story) is a fun fellow who is a retired reporter of the United Press International Bureau Chief (UPI). His writing style is a hoot so with his permission, here is a reprint of an article he wrote when my hubby's family of six kids- five boys and one tough little girl- was quite young.... Here goes:

"There was a time when fater amounted to something in the United States" ---Adlai E. Stevenson

"Never trust a 9-year-old kid. I learned that recently.

A recent poll showed a surprisingly large number of Virginia children listed television better than daddy. So, obsessed with equal amounts of paternal curiosity and concern, I decided to prove to myself that the results of the poll were a quirk, atypical, a geographical idiosyncrasy.
I have six children who range in age from 12 to 3 -a slightly older control group than the 4, 5 and 6-year-olds polled in Virginia. But my kids spend many hours-toomany, my wife thinks- plopped in front of the television set.
My poll was simple, direct. It consisted of one question: 'Whom do you like better, daddy or television?'
I can report with some relief that the answers, in the end, favored daddy. But not without a scare.
The first mistake was conducting the poll at a crowded supper table, instead of in a private, one-to-one fatherly chat where I could influence the answer by conjuring up any charm I might possess.
The second mistake was asking Tommy, the 9-year-old first.
Tommy's a nice kid, a little mischievous and a bit of a tease. But he does pretty well in school, handles his chores after prodding and brushes his teeth occasionally.
He shot his answer back through a satanic grin with out a moment of thought:
'I like television beter.'
That started it, and on cue, the domino theory became reality. Sheila, 3, added, 'I like the television better, too.'
Terry, 6, then cast his vote for the tube.
Jimmy, 8, was concentrating on a hot dog and didn't want to be disturbed. He chalked one up for daddy, however.
Danny, 10, the gentle one of the brood, noticed my increasing discomfort, and with touching filial devotion confessed he liked me better.
Jackie can be business-like for a kid, and his 12th birthday was approaching. Daddy won, hands down.
As a soothing gesture, my wife noted that, unlike fathers, television sets don't tell children 'No, you can't have any candy; take a bath; brush your teeth; go to bed; hurry to school.'
That was some comfort.
Without prompting, except for my offhand reminder that Christmas was near, Tommy relented.
'I was just kidding. I like you better than television,' he said.
On cue once more, Sheila echoed the same sentiment through a mouthful of lettuce. Terry, still operating on the herd instinct, changed his vote and left the room to watch television.
"You know," I told my wife, 'someone ought to poll fathers and find out whom they like better, television or the kids."

Thank you Frank for a look back on a wonderful family- and by the way every one, Jim is now my own sweet husband- he has not changed much when it comes to food- mwaaaahahahahaha!

Where in the world is Sandy???

2010-06-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

Howdy everyone! Been wondering shere our Sandyrella has been?? (this is Cosmo by the way-one of the happy sheep that runs the farm!) Mom has been busy making wool runs from our flock friends- Coopworth from Jacob; Scottish Black Face/British Suffolk/Mule from Graham & Margaret and of course sorting through our own fleeces... She is also working hard to keep us all cool in the humid weather, which has finally let us up today. She thinks we all need to learn to enjoy a wading pool?? Whahaat??? Not. It has been WAY too crazy and we are some very bored sheep lately. Today is better so we are up to our usual mischief-finally! We broke INTO the old dairy barn the other day-THAT was fun, and what a surprise for our people peeps! Who'd a thunk? US of course!

Mom is threatening to put us to work helping to sort fleeces and man the website... again, think not. Too much to DO outside. THEN she asked us to WEED the flower beds and garden? We get in too much trouble for THAT. So, got on the computer early, found mom changed the paypal password on us and she said we had to communicate with our fans. Hope you are all well and enjoying LOTS of fiber and better weather. Cheerioats for now!

A wonderful day.....

2010-06-02T20:53:00.000-07:00

The perfect ending to a perfectly beautiful day..... more info tomorrow- must get some sleep

It is summer time in the sheepy-hood!

2010-05-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

You've probably all seen this picture already, but it bears repeating. This is one of our Great Pyrenees dogs Bobbi- who watches over our flock. I think we did miss out on Spring here in WI? Last week it was in the 60's and nice sleeping weather at night- around 45-50. THIS week, we have jumped right into August?? Wow. The critters really had no time to adjust and be ready for this temp climb so we are spending lots of time outside being sure they have plenty of fresh water to drink- or splash around in. Works for all of us right?

Bobbi likes to soak her toes in the sheep's water tank- which they heartily disapprove of- if only they 'got' it though. Sheep do not like water.... The llamas and alpacas all have their wading pools set up- and the pot belly piglets have their yearly swimming pool dug up too.

I really should not worry about them so much since they really know what to do to stay comfy- right? But then again, if I didn't worry all the time what WOULD I do? bwaaahahahaha!

I am sorting fleeces every day so be sure to watch for email from the sheep. We are cutting/baling our first crop of hay this week too. The sheep have some new ideas that will be 'announced' after June 1 so stay tuned- lots of fun for everyone!! Smooches from the sheeps!

A few hours in the life....

2010-05-17T09:41:00.000-07:00

Well, first this is a post about a few hours of my Sunday afternoon, home alone while the fellows ran errands. Doesn't Phoebe goatie look innocent? Not so much....

Was doing my least favorite laundry- people laundry- give me a dirty sheep fleece anyday! ha! Heard snuffling of all things (in the basement???) and there were two goats looking in the basement window at me. No problemo, we let them in the back yard to 'mow' all the time. Finished up and when I got upstairs, there was PHOEBE looking at me through the back door?

Got shoes, chased the goat off the back porch and closed the door again. What did I hear next? Lambies crying and Snowy mama having a hysterical fit. BOTH lambies out in the big sheep pasture with out mama. As soon as Pixie heard me, she ducked right back in, all innocent, but Pixel is not always as quick as she is. He forgets his way back home. Half an hour later, got the lambs and Snowy back where they belonged. In the mean time, Becan Shetland got IN, and Keebler sheep got OUT. I was so tired- and mad- I shut the gate and said enough. Wait til the guys get home.

Looked up just in time to see Shannon Shetland trotting off down the driveway- looking at me over her shoulder like, tee hee, MY turn! Also noticed at the same time about 5 of her Shetland buddies had snuck into the paddock with the llamas/alpacas. Urgh. THEN, the goats were sleeping inside my back porch? Really? They opened a patio door?

SO ended up throwing my hands up in the air and stomping in the house- THREE HOURS of this silliness and I was el done-o. The guys got home, fixed the fence and got the rest of the critters back where they belonged.... and guess what? The critters were ALL angels? Holy smack....

Good thing they are cute - they sure had a plan for me yesterday didn't they? sheesh! ;0)

Happy cinco de mayo cha cha cha!

2010-05-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

Me thinks the sheep are already passing around the pitchers of Fruit Loop Margaritas? wow...

Another good day....

2010-05-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Howdy everyone- Dalai Llama here! I am the boss, protector in chief of the sheep flock here at the Homestead. I am in charge- least whenever Sandy is not around! IF a coyote, dog (or person) steps a foot in the pasture with my sheep, first I round them up into a circle and tell them to stay there til I say it is ok to move. Believe me, they DO stay, I have taught them well. I keep predators away from my sheep by stomping, biting or shaking them. I have never had to hurt an animal and hope I don't ever have to- but don't try me! (I also have the help of the Great Pyrenees dogs Bobbi & Andrew- but they are the night guards, I am the day guard).
This is what I see every morning, sheep sleeping outside and in the barn. This is Sunshine the Shetland- doesn't she look happy?

This is a picture of some of my older sheeps, who would rather sleep late. Can't have two groups of sheep so I round them all up so we are ready to hit the salad bar (aka BIG pasture) when Sandy comes out for an early walk. Normally I am the lead Llama, but when Sandy is out, I am second in the single file following her. (Sandy can really be bossy but I love her anyway!)

This is the view from the top of the tallest hill on our farm. The fields are across the street and in the far top left corner, there are wild turkeys gobbling and saying good day- every morning. Sandy waits here while we all go out the gate- the SHEEP each stop on the way out for smooches and hugs. Not ME though, I am NOT into hugs! Treats yes, hugs no.....

I bring the sheep back by the barn several times a day for a cold drink of water and a nap in the shade. Sometimes I am sneaky and push the dogs out of the way to soak my toes in the water tank when it is hot out ;0) . I bring the sheep back home by dark so Bobbi & Andrew dogs can take over for night watch. I love my job, my sheep- and every morning is the start to another great day!

PS- the sheep are finishing up an update (aka Sandy is cracking the whip) so don't forget to stop by the website and etsy ok?

Jailbreak- sheep on the 'lam'.....

2010-04-15T13:07:00.000-07:00

Well, Spring has sprung here for real now- the inmates are seriously restless. I came upstairs after a bunch of hours in the fiber palace, looked out the back door and whaaahat?? MAJOR jailbreak- sheep on the lam! All happily, innocently eating grass- in the pasture that waits til at least mid-May to be ready for their silly selves!

Sent Ross out on the Gatormobile in hopes the sheep were tired, full, thirsty- or any combo of the three. If they are not 'ready' to go home, you can plan an entire afternoon at a rodeo getting them all back home -while they gleefully run and sproing around the pasture- anywhere but where you want them to go! It really is difficult not to laugh, but I try to keep my stern face visible at all times....

THIS time, they did go right home- they needed a drink- and a nap. I am going to break out the pink jumpsuits and hats, specially for the ring leaders of the group.... they are so proud of their little selves! Good thing they are cute huh? Least they listen to THAT rule around here- bwaaahahahaha!

Whew! Shearing- what a ride!

2010-04-07T10:53:00.001-07:00

Shearing day is always an adventure- combine good sheep, great shearer and even greater weather- and wa-la! Going to let the pictures tell this story today.... Above- Annie Romney needs a haircut- and yep, she is very trim under all that- LOTS of wool!
Annie waits patiently with her friends for her turn- but wait, what is that we hear????

Whaahaaaat? Snowy had twins about an hour before shearing!

Snowy retired here from McNair's flock last month, we don't breed our sheep but the possiblity was there with Snowy. Surprise! Two little black lambies- one boy, one girl! What a special treat- I love lambies!!!

Lunch break- lotsa fleeces- and a cute Angel Rambouillet gal- hanging around for Fruit Loops and hugs....

She wants her fleece back- is this it?

No haircuts for me thank you- just fill up my squooshy bed again- yey wool!

End of day- even more fleeces! Giddyup!

Angel is still supervising, watching her calories with Diet Coke- but I wonder if the sheep had a Rum & Diet Coke party planned for later? Not sure- didn't get an invitation!

Let the sorting begin- yeah! Have the fleeces in the wool shed (once known as the garage) so now working on sorting fleeces out for everyone.... This is Savanna's Lincoln/Romney cross fleece- available on the website this week. Let us know if there is a certain fleece you are interested in- and thank you for all your patience during the 'ride' of shearing week! Smooches from the naked sheep!

Updates & 2010 Fleece Reservations!

2010-03-24T19:45:00.001-07:00

First, the sheep just finished a big update on the website and etsy shop! Go sheep! Lots of new dyed, washed fiber, batts and roving! Happy to combine shipping between the two shops- just send the sheep an email! ;0)

It is that time of year again folks, David the Wonder Shearer will be shearing our sheep early next week- Yeeha! We are taking fleece reservations but please remember, we do NOT sell entire fleeces right off the sheep. I spend hours sorting fleeces so you only receive the best parts of the fleece- and remember, you have to share with me (oink snort)! ha!

Fleece Reservation Information:

1) Email reservations to ryan3@tds.net , all reservations will be first come first served basis.

2) Please cruise the sheep pages to get an idea of who might fit into your project ideas fleece wise.

3) We will be selling our fleeces for $10 per pound.

4) I am THE fleece person here so it takes time for me to sort the fleeces out to my satisfaction. As I get the fleeces sorted, I will email you and let you know what is available from each fleece. You are not obligated to make a purchase, we understand things change, and you are not obligated to purchase the entire amount available. You get first dibs and any left over for sale will be offered to the next person on that sheep's list. ;0)

5) If you reserve multiple fleeces, we are happy to hold the fleeces here and send them all at once to save you shipping dinero, however, we will be billing you for the fleece that IS sorted and ready to go-the sheep always need Fruit Loops- tee hee! When all of your reservations are ready, we will add the shipping charge at that time.

6) Please remember, I love sorting the fleeces out and do take my time. I try to be timely getting your fleeces on their way but again, it is just me getting them ready, and even if I were quicker, it still takes time! I will keep you posted on all fleeces and appreciate you letting us know if you have any concerns, questions or your plans change!

The sheep send you happy smooches- and I am hoping to get some before pictures- we have a few fleeces almost dragging the ground out there! GIDDYUP! Smooches!

Do you have room for my friend's sheeps?? ;0)

2010-03-18T17:50:00.001-07:00

Hello all! This is a picture of our very own Baaxter the Romney (he is not looking for a home though!) who is family to my friend's flock of Romney sheep. Most of you are familiar with our Romneys, who all 'sprang' from another friend's infamous flock- the McNairs!

My friend started her small flock out with sheep from McNairs and all are healthy, soft fibered, well cared for and loved. Changing family circumstances are forcing my friend to sell her beloved flock- an incredibly difficult decision for her to make. I cannot imagine having to go through this- I am so sad for her.

A few of the sheep are going to retire here with us, leaving about 25 sheep (most pregnant due in April) left to sell/re-home. Her goal is very very good homes where she will know the sheep are happy and safe.

If you would like more information about the sheep, please email us (ryan3@tds.net) and I will put you in touch with her. This is something she never thought she would EVER have to do so we want to help her as much as possible. If you were ever thinking of a few sheep for a spinner's flock, starter flock or of course, PETS, this group of sheep would be perfect in every way! (no enabling here right? ha!)

Thank you for stopping by and I hope through our Homestead grapevine we can find some peace for my friend and wonderful homes for her sheep.... Smooches....

Skid Marks???

2010-03-13T08:17:00.001-08:00

We have so much fun here- truly not all of it things you would want others to see, but things are pretty damn funny! Here is how my Friday started out:

It was beautiful outside so I was cleaning up the yard/pastures as I fed the sheep and family. Yey me! I decided I was tired of the hoses and tank heater debris so unplugged the heaters (gasp) and got out the keep fill device for the big pasture's water tank. Yey me! Dragged the big water tank up the hill to the pasture's hydrant, only to realise that the keep fill did not fit on the edge of that tank. Oh well, dragged the silver tank up, it was filthy, scrubbed it out, and wa-la, the sheep now have fresh water with out our dragging hoses all OVER! Really YEY me! After many sheep kisses, hugs and chats, turned to go back and feed the llamas their grain.

The next thing I know, my feet went out from under me, and I tumbled down the incline- if the pasture gate had not been there, I swear I would have ended up right at our back door! YUK! The only thing saved from my freshly showered self were my Barbara's hand knit socks, which are prized in our house......

I guess I DID get caught though- I looked up (of course not injured) to see all my sheep, Dalai Llama (above) hovering over me, an astonished look on every face. WHAT?! Really Mom?! I think they were either worried about me- but more likely it looked like fun, maybe something THEY thought they should try! bwaaahahaha- and I can just imagine the snickering and giggling that went on as I slopped out of the pasture looking like the creature from the black lagoon!

Our life is a blast-truly-and I have the skid marks to prove it! ;0)

A few good friends.....

2010-03-12T16:21:00.000-08:00

We are so lucky to have so many good friends and family of the sheep- more than lucky. The sheep need a favor- we have a few of our friend family who really need some good thoughts right now ok? Today we are sad for Teresa's loss of her little dog, Sara's loss of Roger the sheep, Miranda's loss of 2 of her 3 sheep and Caroline's recent loss of her Dad. Seems it has been such a difficult year already in some ways, and if you are struggling, we are there with you too. Thank you for keeping this group in your thoughts today- I always feel so helpless trying to console someone who has lost a loved one, words are just never enough....

What is in a name??

2010-03-11T06:05:00.001-08:00

Well, we think fun, karma and magic! Our first ever sheep Woolamina, aka Mina.... (above)

Our Baaxter the Romney sheep......

Our Baab Hope the Lincoln cross sheep....

Our Obama Llama....... (Jenny has a llama named Barack O'Llama)

Our Dalai Llama......

AND, our Cassper Honkey Donkey! My husband is great at coming up with names- our goats are known as the Spice Goats and here are a few names I love for the future (and credit given to anyone I copied them from- just such fun and inventive names!! thank you!)

Assley (Kath's Donkey)

Guardenia (Kath's other donkey)

Don Keyhote (Don Quixote sp?)

Our Vincent Van Goat (lamancha goat with elf ears)

BaaBaaLoo

Como Se Llama (can you say llama?)

Humphrey (our camel friend in KY)

Pig Newton (pot belly pig)

And I just saw there is a farm out there named Alpacaholic? Too too fun!

Hope you are all enjoying your week- yarn update planned for this weekend and our regular fiber update on Monday! Hope to see you there and thank you for stopping by! Smooches from the Soggy Bottom Sheep! (raining non stop today? ugh)

Welcome Home Suzy!!!

2010-03-04T17:24:00.000-08:00

This is a new member of the Ryan/Hilton family- Suzy! My parents adopted her from the shelter Mom walks dogs for- what a lucky dog! Suzy really did the choosing though, she 'picked' Mom from the start. SMART dog!

Suzy is a Lhasa Ahpso (sp?) who is about 8 years old. She is cute as a button, and quite a clown, just ask her obedience class teacher! Dad, we can see you behind Suzy- and we also know your secret- that you adore that dog too!!! ;0) Love you Mom and Dad!

A Missing Goat Named Millie.....

2010-02-22T14:00:00.000-08:00

First I have to let you know this is not a goat missing from our farm here at the Homestead. That said, I am hoping somewhere we can find someone who knows where Millie is- here is the info posted about Millie:

"Our sweet Lamancha-Boer X Doe Millie has disappeared from our farm on Franklin Rd. (Monroe, Wisconsin). Millie is built and colored like a Boer with the small ears of a Lamancha. Millie is primarily white with a light brown head and markings. She is due to kid in March and our daughter was looking forward to showing her at the County Fair. Millie came to us all the way from New York and she is a remarkable Doe. We would be willing to offer a small reward for Millie's safe return we just miss her very much."

I am going to confirm that they have not found their Millie goat today and if not, will re-post pictures here of what she looks like, or similar goats to give people a good idea of her sweet self. I am not saying this goat was stolen, I have no idea, but I do know the farming communities are seeing a large increase in animal theft. It is frightening and the thought of an animal going missing is one of my personal nightmares. Several months ago, someone cut our back fence line, removed the fence panel and all my sheep were in our hayfield the next morning. We do not know who did the fence cutting but it sure put the fear of something into ME. Our sheep were fine and all accounted for but geesalou. I think I hugged and counted them about 50 times that day- every time in tears.

I cannot imagine how sad Millie's family must be- can you help? If you have any information about Millie, please email or call asap! Thank you for stopping by today.... Sandy & the sheep

A little plyin' in February!

2010-02-17T10:51:00.001-08:00

Plying tends to wait in my studio til every stinking bobbin I have is full of singles! Not that I do not LIKE plying, but I guess, singles is where it is here.... tee hee! This bobbin has plyed on it: 2 ply from our Lincoln cross sheep on left; middle is left over Lincoln x plyed with cute checkered fabric with a random wrap thread; and the right side is two ply Jacob & Cotswold wool- hand dyed by la sheep! ;0)

My knitting involves a sweater I am still mad at! Makes lots of sense right? I had it all done last summer, hubby's first ever sweater from our own sheep, my handspun, etc etc AND in time for winter? Wowser! Well, he tried it on, and the arms were short among other issues- and that sweet wonderful man was going to wear it just to make me happy? I tossed that damn sweater in the corner with my other UFO's and I did not pick it up again til a few weeks ago. STILL mad at it but sad down one grumpy day and frogged the entire thing, and started over.

And that is not the end of this sweater saga, I decided last night, six inches into the back section of the sweater that the ribbing is too tight, need to size up a needle. GRRRRRR. SO tonight I frog, and start over again. Now I am determined to get this right- and DONE!!!! SOOOON! Wish me luck and hope all is well with everyone- from your crabby pants knitter friend!

Studio, lambies and updates- oh my!!

2010-02-08T13:11:00.001-08:00

Meet our new sheep Snowy! We adopted her from our friends the McNairs- the 'family' our Romney sheep are from. (I have obviously oink snorted up many right into our own flock!!) ha! Snowy was a bottle lamb raised by Molly, who is off to college soon and wanted Molly to retire with us. Tawist my arm! bwaaahahaha! Snowy is living with our little group of sheep for now- our Bobbi & Andrew (Great Pyrenees) need some time to see her and get used to her being here before she heads out with the big sheep group. She loves treats and is settling down now, I am sure many hugs are to be had!! Eureka!
The sheep are working on today's update- both their website and etsy shop... Be sure to stop in and see what they have been up to- besides Fruit Loop Margaritas!

This is a peek into my office studio- newly rearranged AND organized mind you- well, except for my desk.... This is an approximately 1940's armoire that I came up with at some point about 9 years ago? It needed some help so I got out my trusty paintbrush and got to work. This is the result- a painting of a cupboard on a cupboard? Too fun- makes me want to get painting again- on the walls!!! bwaaahahahahahaha!

Hope to see you soon! Smooches from the sheep!

Valentine Yarn Party with the SHEEP!!

2010-01-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

You heard right!! The sheep are hosting their first ever Valentine Yarn Party! Shop their website or etsy shop before February 1, 2010 and receive a 10% discount on any purchase of handspun or millspun yarn!

(offer does not apply to wool, fiber or shipping fees. Discount will be applied at time of purchase)

Wanna see??? Stop by and visit the sheep if you can! Lots of great new yarn in each shop- let's have some fun!!! Party on sheep!!

A spinning marathon starts.......

2010-01-23T14:31:00.000-08:00

NOW!!!! Must spin MORE yarn- help me, I am hooked...... (now, if the sheep would just help me spin yarn too- now wouldn't THAT be fun??? HA!)

Happy Saturday everyone and smooches from the sheep!

Haaaapy Friday everyone!

2010-01-22T06:15:00.000-08:00

A cast of characters today- sort of a wordless post, at least for me anyhoo! ha! First, Dalai Llama, being sure HE is the only photo possible!
Is that where Chance got the idea?

Bender the Romney!

Our grown up Mari..... first lamb ever born on our farm- her mama Holly was pregnant when she arrived...

Foster (left) and his best friend Jonte!

There are more pictures added to the sheep's bios on the website so have a browse for a fun look into their lives when you can! Happy Friday from the fruit loop sheep family!

Feelin' Groooovy! (?)

2010-01-11T15:47:00.000-08:00

Well, the sheep say snow is groovy anyway! They LOVE it! I think they even have sleds hidden away- we have great hills for that. Wonder if Honkey Donkey Cassper hitches them up to take them to the top of the hills? Doubt it! He is too smart for those silly sheep games!
The sheep just updated the website and etsy with some pretty pretty fiber....

Hope you will stop in when you can!

Hope your new years are off to a great start and Fruit Loops for everyone! bwaaahahahaha! (find us at Etsy and our website any time!!)

How do you say goodbye?

2010-01-02T11:47:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess I do not say goodbye, for me it will always be when we meet again. We had to put our Moose dog to sleep today and I just have no words. He came through a rescue I worked with years back-as a 4 week old, very grumpy puppy (and who wouldn't be after being taken from mom that young??) who decided I was his the first time he set eyes on me. From that day forward, Moose has been my shadow, dedicated to being at my side no matter where I was. He didn't like many other people and had an attitude but he loved me. Best. I don't know how I will go on with out him, but I will because I have to believe he is in heaven now, no more pain and making sure everyone up there behaves-just as HE thinks they should. Sleep well my shadow and know that I loved you back, just as much.

Better late than never Christmas wishes.... ;0)

2009-12-28T10:15:00.000-08:00

My favorite memory with the sheep happened the first Christmas we spent here on our newly purchased, bigger 'farm'. We travelled off to mom and dad's for Christmas Eve (our yearly family gathering-that we LOVE!), worrying (as I tend to do) that the sheep would sneak through the not so great (yet) fencing and visit the neighbors- or worst, get lost!

We got home and the first place I went was to count sheep (hee hee) and they were all present, accounted for- enjoying snacks, all happy-and wondering what the heck was wrong with ME. I took a deep breath, glad to be home and as I sat down to visit with my sheep, my favorite carol came on the radio- like magic, Silent Night.

It was SO perfect and I will never forget how it felt to sit amongst my critter family, the peace and warmth in our cherished, 90+ year old dairy barn. It was so difficult to pry myself out of there-but I did, and spent a very happy rest of the holiday with my wonderful hubby and son...

It brought home to me the wonder of sheep- how they are always there, even when I am in some sort of 'mood'-and how they make me a better person.....

Obviously Sandy child grinch could have benefitted from some pet sheep much earlier in her life! bwaaaaahahahahahaha! Bet you were not expecting THIS right???? HA!

Our wish for you all is that you enjoyed much peace, joy and happiness with your family and friends. Be sure you hug them up every day-and take a page from the sheep's book on happy.... Cheers!

A Border Collie-ism.....

2009-12-07T12:49:00.001-08:00

This is going to be one of the fewest posts by me ever- so enjoy! This is one of our two, sweet sweet, deaf Border Collies- Noodle. I have never seen a happier dog in my life.....
I think we all should take a page out of her book and be happy- even when we are sleeping?!

The website update will be finished by this evening so be sure to take a look- I doubt anything will 'out cute' Noodle but stop by anyway ok? ;0)

Joy to the Wooled!

2009-11-30T16:21:00.001-08:00

Hello everyone! Hope you had a fantastic Thanksgiving weekend! We spent way lots of fun visiting family and eating WAY way too much food! I swear, Saturday we got back here from Mary & Joseph's place and I actually had to rest/collapse.... way too much great food! We are working on updates all week, so please be sure to check both the Etsy shop and our Website ok? The yarn pictured above is our Treasure's 2 ply 'Sheep A Go Go' and you can find it in the sheep's Etsy shop.... giddyup!
We are also adding some great, happy wearables to the site and etsy- very cool, one of a kind items that would be great gifts- to friends OR your own self! This is a 'Feisty Boa/Lash Scarf' and you can find it in our etsy shop....

Roving on the website- 'Bumblin' , a pindrafted roving (thank you Shari of morrofleeceworks dot com !) that includes our own Fender's Romney wool (natural chestnut brown) carded side by side with our own hand dyed Corriedale wool. We purchased the Corrie from our Theo and Morgan's sheep family. Both wools are soft soft soft!

This is another colorway of our millspun yarn- a blend of our own Romney sheep, custom spun by the wonderful gals at Argyle Fiber Mill (dot com). Soft, two ply yarn that would be perfect for any project- it is named Allspice.

As I mentioned, we will be adding things pretty much daily (yes, I am that far behind) AND AND AND, just got my new dyes in the mail today! Yeeha and look out dyepots! Keep an eye on the sheep- they have lots of fun in store for everyone..... Fruit Loop Margaritas all around!!

So thankful for SO much!

2009-11-25T17:38:00.001-08:00

I love this picture of our Baab Hope sheep. I wonder what he is thinking or dreaming about? I hope it is happy contentment.

I hope you all have a wonderful day tomorrow- celebrate your family, friends and LOTS of good food! I can't put into words all the ways I am thankful & blessed....

We are blessed with a wonderful family (critter AND people!), extended 'Homestead' family and enjoy SO much, the good will and happiness of the people around us. Be sure to hug up your family and friends, enjoy your gatherings, and if you are travelling, safe home too!

Thanksgiving smooches (and Fruit Loop Margaritas) from the sheep, who adore you all too!

The Ryans

Happy Thanksgiving updates!

2009-11-24T19:09:00.001-08:00

Hope you all have safe travels and happy Thanksgiving fun! The sheep are planning quite a shindig here so will be fun to see how that all plays out- emphasis on the word PLAY! ha!

We just finished updating our website and etsy shop so please stop by when you can...

We have another update in the works for Sunday afternoon, lots of new fiber in the works- and the mills were busy- two boxes in and one more on the way..... yeeha!

Happy travels and safe home everyone.... Smooches from the sheep!

Updates and froo froo dogs.....

2009-11-14T11:28:00.000-08:00

First, we're going to talk froo froo dogs! This is my wool skirting buddy Thor, aka Thorbaby. He is a 3.5 pound poodle that we adopted 15 (yes 15) years ago as a baby- who was seizuring at the ripe old age of 4 weeks of age. This made him 'unadoptable' for the rescue group I was working with- we could not in good conscience send out a dog that needed lifelong meds, and could maybe live a year- according to our group's vet? Guess he proved US wrong huh? ;0)

I know lots of people who think these little dogs are frail, fragile and bite ankles. Thor, not so much. I swear that little peanut has lived over 9 cat lives.... I frankly do not know HOW he has survived the bumps and scrapes he gets himself into. Three years ago, he fell and broke his jaw AND nose. The vet said, let's give him the weekend, we'll fix him up. He survived the surgery and never looked back, even though he had no teeth after the surgery, and a figure eight wire holding his little jaw bones together...

Friday, Thor seizured and fell off his recliner- on his nose. He broke a chip off his little nose bone, and I thought he was done for this time. Well, I was/am wrong again. Today, thanks to some good dog meds, and a tough little dog, Thor is back on his feet (?), drinking, eating and generally on the mend. I am amazed. He has a bruised eye that will most likely mean he only sees shadows from now on so we will be outfitting a special playpen for him- to keep him safe when we are outside, etc. I am sure he will hate it, but stinks to be loved right?

ALSO, animals amaze me all the time- I was sacked out in my office sleeping when all this happened, Noodle (our deaf border collie) jumped the baby gate in the doorway and landed on me like a freaking line backer. She does that every once in a while so I gave her a hug, turned over and tried to go back to sleep. She was not having it- she pestered me, pulled my blanket off and herded me back through the doorway. There I found Thor, standing in a scary amount of blood, with my schnauzer Buddy standing guard over him. Buddy was not going to let even ME pick Thor up- took some convincing. Now the two dogs come check on Thor after every time they go outside, and they sleep as close to him as they can to make sure he is safe. Amazing..... I am so lucky to be part of their 'pack'....

NOW, off to updates! Above is our Fletcher's Merino cross wool.....

This is Niles, our gorgeous Wensleydale sheep who donated some very pretty locks for the sheep to list on Etsy- against my own oink snort tendency to stash his entire fleece.....

Next is Smooth Sailing Coopworth locks, available on the website......

And please, keep good thoughts for our Magpie goatie, who I lost Wednesday night. We had her for a long long time, never really knew how old she was when she arrived here from a very awful situation- and she was such a sweet sweet girl in spite of it all. I hope she is up with the rest of my critter family, watching over lambies, chasing the naughty goats and loving life as much as she did here. I will miss you forever my Magpie.....

Thank you.....

2009-11-11T07:55:00.000-08:00

Today I again find myself with out a lot of words, just thanks in my heart for the people serving our country. I cannot imagine what you have all given and sacrificed- but only hope our thoughts and prayers will bring you home soon. Safe with your families, where you belong... I am humbly adoring of each and every one of you.... Thank you.

Sheep jackets? Really??

2009-11-02T06:25:00.000-08:00

Good Monday morning everyone! (is that really possible though??) Wanted to chat a little bit about sheep coats/jackets- and why we use them. I am not sure exactly why but there is a new thought out there that they are not 'humane' for the sheep to wear- that being said, here is what we believe!

Why do we jacket the sheep? Jackets protect the best part of a sheep's fleece, keeping out hay and debris. I like to use them most on our smaller sheep (Shetlands) and Angora goaties. The little sheep are 'victims' of their bigger pals, who despite my many pleas for clean, eat their salads over the top of the smaller sheep. We could seperate the little sheep but they would hate that- and so would I. This allows us to have a gorgeous fleece!

When do we put jackets on the sheep? When we start feeding hay, which is usually some time in November. The jackets are then removed on shearing day (April) for spring through fall. Since our sheep are on pasture, we feel there is no need for the jackets at that time.

Are the jackets too warm or uncomfortable for the sheep? Not in our opinion. We buy quality jackets that are made of a strong, light weight 'wind breaker' fabric- made to not rip (sheep LOVE to challenge me and try to rip the coats to shreds!) and designed to adapt itself to a growing fleece- with out matting the locks. We used canvas jackets in the past (pictured above) and found it was easy for the sheep to shred them- big game for them and too much sewing for me! ;0) The new jackets are light weight but do not keep the sheep completely dry-which we feel is not necessary. They slip over the sheep's head, have loops that slip over their hind legs and we monitor their fleece growth frequently to be sure they are fitted properly, if their wool outgrows the jacket, they move into the next size up. The jackets are easily laundered between uses and stay remarkably clean on the sheep too- thanks to the rain I think? ;0)

If you have ANY questions, I am always happy to answer them as things pertain to our own sheep, or look about and find the answers! We would not allow our sheep to do anything that would harm them, jeapordize their safety or just make their lives unhappy. Happy sheep is numero uno rule here, but since they gleefully do not heed my please for at least trying to be clean fleeced, I really prefer the jackets so we have enough sparkling clean fleece to share! Even though I DO tend to oink snort a lot of wool- I DO like to share too!

Long story short (short??Me you say??), we do not feel sheep jackets are inhumane for our fiber animals to wear. They truly don't mind.

Please remember, this is not a commentary about the only 'proper or improper' use for a sheep jacket- our theories do not always work for other shepherds. Their decisions are based on each flocks needs and if you have questions about their practices, just email them, I am sure they would be happy to chat. It is a big world out there with many many different situations and not all theories could possibly be a blanket answer for everyone. (tee hee)

Sophie and Louis are pictured above, modelling the canvas fleeces we used to use. I will get pictures of Becan in his new jacket soon and post it too. So far we only have enough jackets for a few sheep but hope to have them for all of the sheep by next winter. Giddyup! Thanks for listening and I hope I have answered questions you may have!

Cheerio for now! Smooches from the sheep!

Welcomes and updates!

2009-10-20T18:12:00.000-07:00

Hello sheeples! Have lots to show you this week! This is our new lambie pie Apollo- a sweet little North Country Cheviot sheep we adopted from Graham & Margaret's happy flock. He was a bottle lamb this spring and even at 6 months (now), he is SO small- just doesn't plan to grow I guess? He is the size of oh, maybe a Brittany Spaniel? We'll see if he grows into that name- if not, mini sheep is fine by me too! ;0) This is Julia, my friends Kathi & Jon's llama, who came to live with us all the way from Door County WI. They had a hard time driving out of the driveway with out her, loved her dearly, but since I have always adored that beautiful llama, when she needed a home, Kath brought her here... We also have Chaquita here (who came some time ago) that was not being so nice to them- she liked to spit. Ugh. Now that she has a job watching our goaties, Chaquita is good, just don't push her- she still likes to spit once in a while! Julia is watching over our little special needs group for now- and enjoying the view of the ever handsome Dalai Llama! giggle snort!

The sheep also updated the website and etsy shop with lots of new yarn and fiber! Be sure to stop in and look around!

Black Bay Lash/boa yarn!

Chaquita & Max llamas' clouds- Grain Fields!

And last but not least, here is my Cricket horse. She was rescued by a wonderful young lady from northern MN and we adopted Cricket last winter. She was in a sorry state, a throw away baby not even old enough to be away from her mama. We were not sure she would even live. She had skin problems and was SO underweight. She caught my eye because she looked/looks uncannily like the horse I lived my entire life with til I put Crissy down five years ago. It is spooky.

I swore I would never buy another horse, never wanted to compare one to Crissy its whole life- who knew! Cricket is a peanut and we are just starting to do some ground work with her. She is growing again, she won't be 2 til August and is almost 15 hands tall?! wow!

I truly believe some things were just meant to be. We got Cricket knowing that Monte was failing. When we had to put Crissy down, Monte laid down and would not get up- he wanted to go too. Then we got Casper the honkey donkey just in time to perk Monte up again. He saved him. Now when we had to put Monte down, Cricket has saved Casper. Funny how things work out- and how much animals truly do grieve.

Hope you are all happily fibering away- we will be updating the website and etsy again this weekend- planning the rest of the week for sorting fleeces! Giddyup!!

Another day..... ;0)

2009-10-15T09:23:00.001-07:00

Apparently my Dalai Llama's ego is easily bruised? We welcomed Julia to the farm yesterday- she is my friend Kathi's beautiful llama! Dalai came to see who was new in 'his' kingdom and was promptly told Julia was not impressed! She has a full coat of beauteous fiber and looks might poofy- Dalai had an all over haircut this year- but still THINKS he is poofy! He sort of is now that he is ready for winter, however, he took one look at her and said WOWSER! He was not sure if he should be impressed with HER, or try to tell her he was boss? He looked a little confused poor fellow. He wandered off and left her by the fence after a long staredown- with both having those long banana ears pinned back- they hold their heads so funny when they do that- makes them look like a camel! What? camels? I love camels!!! bwaaahahahaha! Jim cringes at the thought..... I don't!

SO, getting Julia settled in and comfy with her little special needs sheep and have boxes to get on their way today. Rainy and weird around here but great inside work weather! Yey, because I have lots! We will be updating the site this weekend so be sure to stop back ok? Toodles for now!

PS- critter photo shoot planned for the weekend too- Julia, Cricket and everyone!

Friday update and Fall Scramble!

2009-10-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall to you! Sure came up fast didn't it? Savanna cannot believe it! And how the 'fall scramble' seems to catch us EVERY year, despite our best summer intentions! eek. This weekend it is blustery enough to be 'coldish', overcast and only about 40 degrees? Holey camoley batman. SO, all those little jobs that could have been done this summer, are a must do NOW! Grain feeders today, sheep worming/check ups tomorrow morning. Even a few coats for the smallest sheep- mainly the Shetlands because they are so much smaller than everyone. Also coating our Angora goats this winter- keep your fingers crossed for our 'no-rip' coats ok? Giddyup!

This is Savanna's wool, (her picture is above this one)- she is a Lincoln cross sheep with the most beauteous honey brown fleece. It is soft, locks of 4 + inches and very little debris/veggie matter remains. Perfect as is, dyes well and is an easy wash too!

Mulberry Wine- hmmmm, need a jug of THAT. This is Coopworth wool from Jacob's flock- all soft and snuggly, perfect for a fall spinning/felting project!

The sheep added lots of new fiber (unwashed, washed & dyed) and yarn to the site & etsy so be sure to check it all out! And as always, we are happy to combine orders between the site and etsy shop- and refund over charges for shipping from Etsy! We are so easy to work with! tee hee!

Also, if you could be on the look out for critters in need, you might be surprised where they are- all around you. This week found a horse running loose in a very large city in IL- nobody has claimed him yet and I am happy that the horse was caught before being hit by a car. I hope the owner is looking for him, but it would not surprise me if some desperate person may have just let it loose, hoping someone would take him in. (doesn't always make sense to me but people are absolutely desperate right now). We have a good network of people that are friends of the sheep and always try to help place large animals/fiber animals with a good home, or temporary place to have shelter and love.

And please also remember, while there are turds out there that do not take care of their animal friends, I think right now, there are more people in the terrible place that they actually have to choose to feed their family and find homes for their animal friends. It is a gutwrenching decision for most people to make- if you see a chance to help someone, a bag of dog food, cat food or? You would be amazed how helpful that can be. Specially if it is just a rough month for someone- it may just get them through til things are better.... You don't even have to tell them you did it if you are worried about hurthing their feelings- just drop it on their porch, in their car? And take away with YOU the good karm that follows for paying things forward.

Thank you all for being so wonderful and hope you have a very merry fibery weekend!!

Happy weekend y'all!

2009-09-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

Arthur our sassy Shetland needs your help- and he THINKS you will help!! We are looking into ordering jackets for them today- he says no no no!! I say yes yes yes! They don't listen to me when I ask them nicely to keep their fleeces clean so that's the fact jack. Mom wins! Going to get the goats and small sheep jackets this year, and work on the rest of the sheep too. Looking forward to better fleeces, and jackets that won't be able to be shredded- tee hee- they only THINK they can best me right? ha! (We'll see)

Promise to self: NEVER let my yarn get ahead of me again. I spent the better part of a week taking photos and loading the new yarn on the website? Shame on me. Sure is fun to see it all 'out there' though so if you have time, have a look ok?

I am off to have a knitting sleep over with mom tonight so the men are manning the farm til tomorrow when I get back. (eek) Will be updating the site and etsy again by Wednesday- but in the meantime, you never know when a sneaky update might make its way on either one- I added a few Crazy Quilt batts the other day- bwaaahahahahaha! Better keep an eye on the sheep- and happy fibery weekend all! Smooches from the sassy sheep!

What is a horse.....?

2009-09-17T17:37:00.001-07:00

A horse is an indescribable champion, inside or out of an arena or show. He never questions happy, tears or the need for a hug- and a good snuffle of that ever wonderful 'horse smell'. Strangley comforting and never overrated....

Our horse is Monte- he is a good friend not only to his people peeps, but his sheep too- specially our little Piper sheep....

He survived a trip to America from Australia, a brand on his hip, landing eventually with a polo group that did not treat him well. He came to us at the age of approximately 15- sad, sore and amazingly, never holding a grudge for what had gone before.

He loved to play, specially with popped beach toys- you know, the ones we all had as kids- til we popped them? The big difference was Monte figured out quickly that if he flipped it around and shook it, it was SCARY OOGIE BOOGIE to the others! What could be more fun??

His best friend for life was my horse Crissy, who left us about 5 years ago. He has since befriended our honkey donkey Casper- who rescued Monte from the despair of losing Crissy.

SO, what is a horse? It is you Monte, never giving up, taking everything in stride. I only hope I can mirror some of your charm, being a good friend, family and living my life the best I can. I cannot imagine how I will do this without you my friend. My only little bit of solace is I can let you free from your pain, and send you up to find my Crissy, and all my little sheep angels. Please keep them safe and remind them how much I love and miss them.... always.

Always remember...

2009-09-11T07:02:00.001-07:00

No pictures today, or goofy stories, just remembering this day that seems like it is still yesterday- September 11. I can remember that entire day, exactly where I was, what I was doing when those mighty towers fell and so many lives destroyed. I really cannot find words to adequately tell how deeply this affected me- all the brave people involved that may never recover- families and rescuers alike- you have my thoughts, not just today, but always. I wish that you find peace some day. We all should never forget that day and all it brought to our lives. Even though I was not there in person, my soul was- I promise to never forget all you did, all you lost.....

Updates and ramblings!

2009-09-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

Good eeeeevening! I vant to show you fiber..... mwaaahahhaha! Geesalou, been a loooong day- can you tell? ha! The sheep stayed up late tonight, or should I say late WORKING, to update the website AND etsy! Yey sheeps- bet they will sleep late tomorrow? Doubt it!

Top picture is the first of the Mohair (Angora goatie) fiber we have to offer from our friends Mary & Joseph's flock. (really really-that is their name!) The fiber in the picture is from their papa goat and started out 'life' as a silvery white fleece. THEN the sheep happened and that was all she wrote.... ;0) They sure come up with some great color ways!
This is another Coopworth wool selection- Fade to Fall....

Our Romney clan's wool, blended at the Argyle Fiber Mill with huacaya & suri alpaca from Jenny's happy flock. And again, the sheep got happy and dyed it all up! Sweet Potato!

And last but not least, our Baab Hope has his fiber sorted out and listed on the website too. He is such a sweet sheep (I say that alot, but it really is true!). He arrived as a bottle lamb and has grown into this beautiful, elegant Lincoln/Romney cross sheep. The only black spot on his body is the little beauty mark above his mouth on the left side-- I LOVE this picture of Baab.

Baab's wool features 4+ inch locks, very minor debris to remove, soft/medium to touch, a bit of shine- AND easy to wash, dye and blend..... Can't go wrong!

We did a little rearranging on the site (fall cleaning?) so be sure to check around for the new drop down menu choices. I think seperating the fibers to some of their own pages is making it easier to browse with out being so overwhelmed? Hope so anyway! Working on yarn this week so will be updating pages, adding new yarn to both Etsy and the Site- and we are always happy to combine orders if you shop both ok? Just email the sheep and we will get it all set to go! Manana sheeples!

PS! Don't forget our sheepy knit/sew along for the shirtless UK chicks ok? CHICKENS you naughties! The sheep just cast on chicken jumper #5! (info in blog update August 24- or email for info ok?)

Scotch Mule Fleeces featured in Spin Off Magazine!!

2009-09-03T11:02:00.000-07:00

Hooray for Graham and Margaret of Little Dale farm! Their Scotch Mule sheep were featured in the new issue of Spin Off- gorgeous pictures and Carol Rhoades did a wonderful job describing the fleeces and I love her projects! We are lucky to be able to purchase Graham & Margaret's fleeces each spring- and we are sorting the Scotch Mule fleeces right now to get them ready to sell. I am putting together a list of people to sort for- and wool will be sold first come first served- in order of email received by the sheep. You can email us through the site or via ryan3 at tds dot com. We have a limited amount of this wool so don't miss out, this is gorgeous wool!!

The Mule sheep pictured here is our own little Brenden- we purchased him from Graham & Margaret several years ago- and he is a smooch! This is not Brenden's wool for sale though- it is all from his family....

Hope you are all enjoying your week- almost a long weekend- with lots of fiber involved??? Look forward to hearing from you and thanks for stopping by!

(PS- you have seen this wool in the past on our site listed as Scotch Mule or Blue Face Leicester x)

Chicken Run--er Chicken Jumpers!

2009-08-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

No, the sheep have not lost their marbles, thanks to a friend of the Homestead, they were given a link to the Little Hen Rescue in the UK- who is in need of Chicken Jumpers! They rescue scads of hens from egg production farms, get them healthy, and re-home them. Many arrive with out their tummy and back feathers- thus the need for jumpers/sweaters!

Sooooooo, the sheep want to help them out- and make this a long term knit along (KAL) AND sew along- there are two patterns on the site (jumpers), one for knit jumpers, and one for sewn fleecies! Below are my first two jumpers- the first I made a mistake, so figured some cute hen would like to be stylin (?) with a boa neck line! bwaahahahahaha! I used wool yarn that was millspun, I dyed it a bit ago, and it has been waiting the perfect project...

And this is the second - another stash buster! Woolie and I hope warm for a UK winter! tee hee! I have a third on the needles that is knit with acrylic yarn I found at a thrift store... And how fun to work with buttons from the button box!!

It does not take much yarn to knit one of the jumpers up- and it is a quick evening type project. I have not tried out the sewn pattern but I think it would be perfect for extra pieces of fabric you may have- soft and snuggly fleece? (trust me, they would NOT want me to sew for them- THAT would be a disaster!!!)

As part of our 'chicken jumper/run', the sheep have decided to have everyone send the jumpers to us here, and we will send one big box whenever we have a full one. ALSO, the sheep will credit $1 for each jumper sent in to us that you can use for your next order... Giddyup sheeps!

Hope you think this is as fun as we do- and look forward to hearing from you- you can find this info on our Ravelry site too- and if you have any questions, just email the sheep!! (ps- my hens and even my little ROOSTER are making a case for their own jumpers for winter???? heeelllllpppp!) I told them naked chicken jumpers first! ;0)

Here is the link again for the jumper patterns , and we will be updating the website and etsy shop by Wednesday this week- smooches from the sheep (and all the needy naked chickens!!)

Happy Monday Sheeples!

2009-08-17T08:08:00.000-07:00

Now how is THIS for a happy Monday? Top picture is our Obama Llama, below our Dalai Llama- what camera hams huh? I really doubt they know what day it is- but most days I don't either! tee hee! Obama has some fiber on the website this week- our update was Friday and there are still lots of fun woolies so have a peek!!
The sheep also wanted to let you know about a fairly new shop featuring the creations of Manuela- long time friend of the sheep! Many of her creations, yarn and spinning fiber include fiber from our critter family- she is quite the talent! Be sure to have a look ok? ;0)

Hope you all had a fantastically fibery weekend! Lots of great new fiber coming your way on this week's update- my wonder hubby 'bailed out' the fiber at Argyle Fiber Mill- giddyup!!! I think I even saw some millspun Shetland yarn from our little auburn Vaughan??? Off to play!

Somebody sssstop me!

2009-08-07T08:28:00.000-07:00

Truly- save me from myself! Holly has been on a burn dyeing up some gorgeous fiber- including banana 'silk', Teeswater Locks, Wensledale locks, firestar and more more more! These are all fibers from her website at www.hollyeqq.com and you better have a look (and a shop) before the sheep cut loose with some shopping of their own!!!! Off to ponder the fiber- bwaaahahahaha!

Where are youuuuuu, oh Princess of Poooop??

2009-08-02T10:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have been scooping poop- and doing some major reclaiming of our yard this past week- hubby was on vacation- bet he will be glad to get back to work! bwaaahahaha! Princess is still looking for her tiara and any time I broach the subject, the sheep just fall down laughing? That's gratitude for ya'! In the mean time, have updates on the website and etsy so be sure to take a browse ok? ;0)
Top photo: Sabella's Jacob wool (unwashed)
Second photo: Sevila's washed Jacob wool
(Both that rare Lilac color!)

Pumkin patch 'set''- wool and suri alpaca dyed in the same dyepot!

Ebony's Romney wool (Kendra's happy sheep)

Princess of Poop, over and out for now!!

Klondike Bars and updates?

2009-07-17T11:37:00.001-07:00

Ok, insert here the tune from the Klondike bar commercial, substitute the words: what would you do-oo-oo for a felted fleece??? ;0) Below you see the results of some malfunctioning projects- and have to admit, the first was MY fault, the second was Ross. (sorry kiddo!)

The top of the picture shows a scary, hula hoop sort of being that I knit (my own apparently awful patern) in an attempt to create a tote bag for Humphrey the camel's mom Cindy the teacher (if you are reading this Cindy, read no further, unless you want a giggle!). I spun up a yarn that was one ply of Humphrey's camel fiber, blended with his llama buddy's fiber. Then I plyed it up with wool from our own sheep to be sure it would felt 'properly'. (and keep in mind, I am a very very novice felter ok? please?) I was pretty sure by the time it hit the felting steps that I had not knit a very viable tote, but in my 'classic' style, sent it through anyway. OOPS big time! NOW I have to figure out how to fix this, or Humphrey might disown me! Sorry Humphrey! It can't work as a totebag, even cut and sewn, it is heavy, hairy and she would look like Humphrey had indeed come to work with her.....
The lower dyed fiber is oh, about 6 + pounds of Jacob's coated Coopworth wool that I washed and dyed. I asked Ross to spin the water out of the last rinse and guess what? He put the lid down on the washer. Gaaaaaah! SO, stay tuned, nothing we can't fix right? Kind of excited to see what kind of yarn you can spin with felted locks- boas?? ;0)
Still lots of fun fiber from the update on Wednesday so be sure to browse our site, and the sheep's etsy shop! Off to spend the night at my parents and see the Midwest Fiber & Folk fair so toodles til tomorrow- happy weekend!

Sheep on the Runway????!

2009-07-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

No, the sheep have not escaped and caused a scene! (although the thought of being on the runway has caused some new ideas with the sheep- not all of them good-gotta watch the keys to vehicles!) Last fall, designer Kristina Phelps purchased natural colored roving from our Sophie, Louis and a few others.

She wove the roving onto a dress form, and spent HOURS hand felting the roving perfectly in place....
She designed this dress exclusively for a large show in Texas- that included hundreds of entries from other designers. Her dress was chosen to be included in the runway modelling - only a few out of the hundreds were chosen!
So there you have it- a new place for the sheep- Sheep on the Runway! tee hee! Thank you Kristina for sharing your success and beautiful fiber art!
Updates on the site Mon/Tues, hoping for an update to Etsy this weekend too, HOWEVER, the sheep are tired out- from watching US stack hay in the barn.... go figure!

(PS- Thank you for all your kind words Graham from England! They mean the world to us and hope you will stop in again- or any questions I am happy to answer- just email!!)

Pick yourself up, dust yourself off.... ;0)

2009-07-04T09:52:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone! Hope you all have fun planned for today and the weekend? Any fiber involved? Knitting? Spinning? Felting??? My spinning wheels are a 'centering force' in my life, and I have definitely needed that lately- big time. The first picture is the yarn I am currently spinning- our roving carded by Shari that is a blend of our Theo (white Corriedale) and Morgan's (Tunis) fleeces- spun on my Kromski Symphony wheel. I love how the yarn is sort of a 'secret' when you are spinning, then when I skeined it up- I could see the pretty red/cinnamon-y fibers from Morgan's softly red fleece! It is really unique. The OTHER unique thing here is, this is the first time in forever that I have sat through spinning over 2 pounds of ONE yarn! Yey me! Yey for my mental health too- hee hee! I spun one ply of really fine weight yarn, then let the second ply be how the wool 'wanted' to be. This will be on the sheep's Etsy shop soon.... need a yarny laundry day soon!
The rest of the pictures are just some of my favorites- all on the 'wheel' at one time or another.... Above is again, Kromski spun....

Spun on my first ever wheel! My little 'castle' wheel from Russia. It has seen hundreds of years of happy spinning, it has some chatter to it but I like to think it is telling stories of people and projects long ago....

My new challenge wheel is a Rio Grande spindle wheel- thank you Taos Martie! I got started spindle wheel spinning with my Penguin wheel and graduated to this one. It is a step toward my dream of an antique walking wheel- but boy do I need practice! The long draw spinning is not my 'natural'- I am an 'inch worm' spinner according to my friend Kathi- kind of makes her crazy watching me! ;0) (The blue roving was Corriedale from a friend's flock- Theo & Marshall's 'family')

This is again, the Rio Grande- my first attempt at spinning from clouds... The yarn from this wheel is SO light and soft- I just love it- soft smooshy single ply, in spite of myself! The fiber was a blend of Humphrey's Camel fiber and his llama buddies...

Hope you all enjoy the weekend- and smooches from the sheep! Not sure what THEY have planned tonight but I am sure it involves margaritas and fireworks- bwaaahahahaha!