Against All Advice: I Traded My Suit for Carhartts at 47

At 47, I had a life that many would question why I left. I'd successfully bought, renovated, and cherished several homes, cultivated a wonderful circle of friends, and enjoyed a vibrant social life. My office was prime, my wardrobe boasted gorgeous clothes and power suits, and my briefcase was practically an extension of my arm. For decades, I'd thrived in the corporate world, meticulously climbing the ladder and building a formidable client base. As a single woman, my career left little room for anything else; I essentially lived for my clients and in it’s prime, I loved it. Despite the all consuming nature of my career, I did find time to travel and explore. I loved to cook and entertain and I spent my Saturday mornings in my garden.

Not a bad life, Right?

Beneath the polished veneer, a quiet yearning had begun to stir. A yearning for something real, something rooted, something it seemed must be… green and involve nature. The idea, when it first bloomed, seemed ludicrous. "I'm going to buy a farm," I announced , and watched as the polite smiles froze on my friends' faces. "A farm?" my sister echoed later, "Olga you can’t do that yourself! You've barely even seen a farm up close!" Everyone, it seemed, had advice. And all of it , although well intentioned, was overwhelmingly against the idea. "You're too old to start over." "Farming is back-breaking work, not for someone used to air conditioning." "It's a huge financial risk." "You'll be lonely." The chorus of well-meaning warnings grew louder with every passing day, a symphony of doubt that threatened to drown out my nascent dream.

Trading my comfy life for Green Pastures

For the first time in a long time, I wasn't listening to anything but my inner yearnings. The corporate world, once a challenging arena, had become a gilded cage. The thrill of the early days had faded, replaced by a dull ache of dissatisfaction. I spent my evenings devouring books on trending ideas, permaculture, sustainable farming, and soil health. I attended conferences and classes wherever offered. I walked acre after acre looking for THE farm. I Googled "how to drive a tractor" and "what is crop rotation" with the same intensity I once applied to quarterly reports. The day I finally put in my notice, my friends and colleagues looked at me as if I’d announced I was joining the circus. But as I walked out of that life and into my new life a lightness I hadn't felt in years settled over me. The air, even the city air, seemed fresher. The future, once a meticulously planned itinerary, stretched out before me, vast and uncharted and brimming with possibilities. I felt younger then I’d felt in years! I didn't have a farm yet. I didn't know the first thing about caring for pastures or tending to livestock. I was 47, single, and embarking on a journey that everyone advised me against. And for the first time in a very long time, I felt truly, gloriously alive. The briefcase-carrying life was over. The dirt-under-her-fingernails life was about to begin. And somehow, I knew, it was going to be magnificent.

Stay tuned for the next chapter, where I take the first daunting steps towards a new life.

Embrace the Earth: The Surprising Benefits of Wool Sponges

Move over, plastic scourers and flimsy synthetic scrubbers! There's a quiet revolution happening in homes focused on sustainability and natural living, and it's being led by an unassuming, yet remarkably effective, hero: the wool sponge.

If you're accustomed to your kitchen sponges being brightly colored, rough to the touch, and quick to fall apart, the idea of a "wool sponge" might sound a little... unexpected. But trust us, these aren't your grandmother's knitting projects. Felted wool sponges are rapidly gaining popularity for their incredible durability, surprising effectiveness, and impressive eco-credentials.

What Exactly is a Wool Sponge?

Unlike your typical synthetic sponge, a wool sponge is crafted from tightly felted wool, usually sheep's wool. Felting is a process where wool fibers are agitated with soap and water, causing them to interlock and create a dense, durable fabric. This natural process results in a material that is:

• Naturally Absorbent: Wool can hold a remarkable amount of water, making it excellent for wiping spills and cleaning surfaces.

• Gently Abrasive (When Wet): While soft to the touch, the felted wool, especially when wet, provides just enough texture for effective scrubbing without scratching most surfaces. I use them on cast iron and just as readily on porcelain and crystal

• Naturally Antibacterial/Antimicrobial: Wool has inherent properties that resist mold, mildew, and bacteria growth, meaning your sponge stays fresher for longer and won't harbor those unpleasant odors.

• Durable & Long-Lasting: Because of the felting process, these sponges are incredibly resilient. They can withstand repeated use and often outlast synthetic sponges by a significant margin.

• Compostable & Sustainable: This is the big one! When your wool sponge finally reaches the end of its long life, you can simply toss it into your compost bin, returning it to the earth without a trace. It's a true circular economy hero.

Why Make the Switch?

Beyond their natural properties, here's why more and more people are falling in love with wool sponges:

1. Reduce Plastic Waste: Every synthetic sponge you throw away contributes to landfill waste for hundreds of years. Wool sponges offer a guilt-free alternative.

2. Say Goodbye to Stink: Seriously, if you're tired of that perpetual funky smell from your traditional sponge, wool is a game-changer. Its natural properties keep it smelling fresh.

3. Versatility in the Home: From dishes and countertops to sinks and even light scrubbing on produce, wool sponges are surprisingly versatile.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: Let's be honest, they just look nicer. Their natural, earthy tones fit beautifully into a conscious and minimalist home.

5. Kind to Your Hands & Surfaces: They are gentle enough for most non-stick pans and delicate surfaces, yet effective on everyday grime.

Getting the Most Out of Your Wool Sponge: A Few Tips

• "Breaking In" is a Thing: If your wool sponge feels a little soft or less dense when new, don't worry! Like good leather or raw denim, felted wool can "break in." The more you use it with water and a bit of pressure, the denser and more effective it will become. You can even give it a gentle rub under warm water to accelerate this.

• Rinse Thoroughly: After each use, rinse your wool sponge well to remove any food particles or soap residue.

• Allow to Air Dry: Just like any natural sponge, give your wool sponge a chance to fully air dry between uses. Place it on a soap dish with good drainage.

• When It's Time to Retire: Once your sponge has truly lived its best life, simply cut it into smaller pieces and add it to your home compost pile.

wool fibers need use and water to fully felt

Embracing wool sponges is a small, yet impactful, step towards a more sustainable and mindful home. Give one a try – you might just find your new favorite cleaning companion!

Skirting Wool: The Essential First Step to Beautiful Fiber

Skirting Wool at our homemade skirting table

So, your sheep have been sheared, and you've got a beautiful fleece in front of you.

Now what?

Or, maybe you’re just curious about the process. wool goes through.

Before you can spin, felt, or even sell that wool, you need to "skirt" it. Skirting is the crucial first step in preparing raw fleece for processing, and it makes a world of difference in the quality of your finished product.

Let's dive into what skirting is, why it's important, and how to do it effectively.

What is Skirting?

Skirting involves removing the undesirable portions of a raw fleece. This includes:

• Vegetable Matter (VM): Hay, straw, burrs, and other plant material.

• Manure and Dirt: Any soiled or heavily contaminated areas.

• Short Cuts: Fibers that were cut too short during shearing.

• Cotted or Matted Wool: Tangled or felted sections that are difficult to process.

• Second Cuts: Fibers that were cut twice during shearing, resulting in short, undesirable pieces.

• Stained or Discolored Wool: Areas that are heavily discolored or stained.

• Fleece Tips: The very ends of the fleece, which may be weathered or weak.

Why is Skirting Important?

• Improved Fiber Quality: Skirting removes impurities that can weaken or damage the wool, resulting in a cleaner, stronger, and more consistent fiber.

• Easier Processing: Clean fleece is much easier to wash, card, spin, and felt.

• Enhanced Finished Product: Skirting leads to a more beautiful and high-quality finished product, whether it's yarn, felt, or another wool craft.

• Increased Value: A well-skirted fleece is more valuable to buyers and processors.

• Protecting Equipment: Vegetable matter and dirt can damage spinning wheels and other fiber processing equipment.

How to Skirt a Fleece:

1. Prepare Your Space:

   • You'll need a large, clean surface. A dedicated skirting table with a mesh top is ideal, as it allows dirt and debris to fall through. You can also use a clean tarp or a large table. Here’s a design for one from our friends at Bide a Wee Farm

   • Good lighting is essential. Natural light is best, but bright artificial light will also work.

   • Have a large container or bag for your skirtings. Here’s a LINK to our favorite “bag holder”. We keep several in use. One for the wool discard and one for the skirted fleece

2. Lay Out the Fleece:

   • Carefully lay the fleece out on your skirting surface, with the fleece's "outside" facing down.

   • Spread it out so you can see all areas clearly.

3. Remove Obvious Debris:

   • Start by removing any large pieces of vegetable matter or manure by hand.

4. Work Around the Edges:

   • Begin at the edges of the fleece and work your way inward.

   • Carefully examine each section and remove any undesirable portions.

   • Tear off heavily contaminated or matted areas.

5. Check the Main Body:

   • Once you've skirted the edges, carefully examine the main body of the fleece.

   • Look for any remaining vegetable matter, short cuts, or other imperfections.

   • Flip the fleece over and repeat the process on the other side.

6. Bag Your Skirtings:

   • Dispose of your skirtings in a designated container.

7. Bag Your Skirted Fleece:

   • Place the clean fleece into a breathable bag, such as a burlap or paper bag, for storage. Avoid plastic bags, as they can trap moisture and lead to mold.

Tips for Effective Skirting:

• Skirt in a well-lit area.

• Take your time and be thorough. Often I hear anxiety from a new “skirter” worried about doing it right. Just know you’ll become more and more confident. I remember being very aggressive in the beginning. I felt it was better to throw away a bit of good wool then to sell a bit of trashy wool!

• Practice makes perfect: Like any skill, skirting improves with practice. The more fleeces you skirt, the better you'll become at identifying and removing undesirable portions. You'll develop an eye for quality.

• Don't be afraid to remove a significant amount of wool if necessary. It's better to have a smaller, high-quality fleece than a large, low-quality one. I am a member of the “if in doubt, pull it out” camp!

• Practice makes perfect. The more you skirt, the better you'll become at identifying and removing undesirable portions.

• If you are unsure of the quality of some wool, set it aside in a seperate area. You can then evaluate it later.

After 15 to 20 minutes we have a well skirted fleece! You could be faster but then you might miss the zen of it all !

Skirting wool is an essential step in preparing raw fleece for processing. By taking the time to properly skirt your fleece, you'll ensure a higher quality finished product and a more enjoyable fiber experience. If your sending your wool to a mill to be processed they will be particularly Happy with you and if your selling your fleece directly to the end user they will be left with hopefully nothing but compliments for you and your farms standards!

Happy skirting!

Do you have some favorite skirting tips you’d like to share? Maybe you have a particular skirting challenge you’ve faced? Maybe you have a question about skirting you’d like “like minded” folk to help you decipher?

Please share in the comments below!

Do Sheep Need a Barn? The Answer is in Their Wool!

We have just shorn all of our sheep and for a short time we worry about the sheeps ability to “weather” the weather without their wool coats. A question we often hear: "Do sheep need a barn to stay safe from the weather?" And the answer, more often than not, is a resounding "no!"

While barns can certainly provide shelter, sheep have their own built-in protection: their wool.

The "Barn" They Carry:

There's a saying that beautifully encapsulates this: "Sheep wear the barn on their backs." And it's not just a cute phrase. It's a fundamental truth about sheep and their remarkable adaptability.

• Wool as a Natural Insulator: Sheep's wool is far more than just a fluffy coat. It's a complex, multi-layered structure that provides excellent insulation. It traps air, creating a barrier against cold, wind, and rain.

• Protection from the Elements: This natural insulation allows sheep to withstand a wide range of weather conditions, from freezing temperatures to heavy downpours. Their wool effectively acts as a portable barn, keeping them warm and dry.

• Adaptability and Resilience: Because of their wool, sheep are incredibly resilient. They can graze in open fields, even in inclement weather, without needing to seek shelter in a barn. We actually find the sheep that spend most of their time outdoors have much cleaner wool.

Shelter from the canopy of trees is their first choice

Why Barns Aren't Always Necessary:

• Natural Protection: Sheep's wool provides a level of protection that often surpasses that of a basic barn.

• Health Benefits: Open-air grazing and exposure to natural elements can actually be beneficial for sheep's health, promoting strong immune systems and overall well-being.

• Cost-Effective: Eliminating the need for a large barn can significantly reduce the costs associated with sheep farming. We have shelter for all of our sheep groups but some of them choose the great outdoors!

When Barns Might Be Used:

While sheep are generally well-protected by their wool, there are certain situations where barns might be used:

• Extreme Weather: In cases of prolonged, severe weather, such as blizzards or intense heat waves, barns can provide additional protection.

• Lambing Season: During lambing season, barns can provide a safe, warm, and dry environment for newborn lambs and their mothers.

• Sick or Injured Sheep: Barns can provide a controlled environment for sick or injured sheep, allowing for easier care and treatment.

The Takeaway:

The next time someone asks if sheep need a barn, remember the saying: "Sheep wear the barn on their backs." It's a testament to their incredible adaptability and the remarkable protective power of their wool. While barns can be useful in certain situations, sheep are naturally equipped to handle a wide range of weather conditions.

Cherishing Culinary Heirlooms: My favorite Kitchen Utensil

I have a sieve that belonged to my mother. I use it frequently. The uses are endless.

More importantly , it transports me…

If you truly love spending time in your kitchen as I do, chances are you have a collection of favorite utensils. These are the tools you instinctively reach for, the ones that feel like an extension of your own hands. As cooks we certainly have many a tool that makes the task that much easier or offers efficiency in a splendid way. But have you ever stopped to consider the history behind these beloved implements, especially the ones passed down through generations? These cherished tools carry a rich history that can enrich your cooking experience in ways you might not imagine.

Think about the well-worn wooden spoon, its handle smoothed by years of countless stirs and the very hands of loved ones that used it. Or the heavy cast iron skillet, seasoned to perfection by decades of family meals. These aren't just tools; they're vessels of memory, whispering stories of kitchens past. They connect us to the family before us and the love they poured into the food they prepared.

I’m as guilty as the next person of convincing myself that the latest greatest trend in kitchen tools is a necessary addition to my culinary collection (sometimes lovingly referred to as toys). Sometimes they’re well received and worthy, others times not quite as necessary as I’d convinced myself they’d be. If they make a task easier or create better results I’m sold but it’s hard to compare to the well worn, aged with love, items used by your someone you miss!

Just Imagine using a rolling pin that your mother used or a set of measuring cups that helped create countless culinary masterpieces. These tools become imbued with meaning, carrying the essence of everyday meals shared around the table. Using them can evoke a sense of nostalgia, a comforting connection to the past, and a tangible link to your heritage.

My mothers wooden spoons

I am lucky enough to have a few items that belonged to my mother but none beyond her generation, that I am aware anyway… We do have some handmade knives that belonged to my husbands’ Nana, made by her husband aka PaPa (pronounced paw paw).

The colander or sieve pictured here is a work horse! It’s the perfect frame size and the perfect screen size. I use it to strain my sauces and curds and make my jams as well as sift any and everything. It seemingly suits every job. Mind you I have other colanders/sieves but they just don’t cut it for one reason or another. With each passing year of use and each time it’s washed I think about how many years, how many kitchens, how many hands and how many culinary creations it’s been involved in.

I have invested in some really good knives for my culinary endeavors but these old beauties hold an edge just as well and think how long they’ve been used and loved. It's not just about the sentimental value. These older tools often possess a quality and craftsmanship that's hard to find in modern equivalents. They've been tested by time, proven their durability, and become perfectly suited to their purpose. That well-seasoned cast iron skillet, for example, can impart a flavor to food that's difficult to replicate with newer cookware. And a vintage whisk might have the perfect flexibility for whipping cream or beating eggs. Maybe it’s just a matter of “softening the edges” as we say?

Beyond their practical uses, these utensils also offer a glimpse into the evolution of cooking itself. From simple hand tools to more sophisticated gadgets, each piece reflects the changing times and the ingenuity of cooks throughout history. They remind us of the resourcefulness of past generations and the ingenuity they employed in creating delicious meals with the tools they had available, whether made by their hand(s) or not.

So, the next time you reach for your favorite spatula or mixing bowl, take a moment to consider its history. If it's a piece passed down from your family, cherish it. Use it. Let it connect you to your roots and inspire you to create your own culinary memories. These tools are more than just objects; they're tangible links to our past, a way to keep family traditions alive, and a reminder that the love of cooking, and the tools we use, can be passed down through generations, enriching our lives and the meals we share.

"What's the oldest tool in your kitchen? What memories does it evoke?

Share their stories in the comments below! I'd love to hear about the special tools that connect you to your family's culinary past.

Wool Pellets

From Fleece to Garden: Introducing Sustainable Wool Pellets

As sheep farmers, we know the joy and hard work that goes into producing quality wool. But at the end of each year, we're often left with fleeces that don't quite meet the grade for one reason or another. Instead of seeing this wool go to waste, we've found a sustainable and beneficial solution:

Wool for your garden!

freshly shorn wool in our raised beds

For years, we've been passionate about finding ways to utilize all of our wool. We've always sold or processed the premium fleeces, but the remaining often presented a challenge. Our philosophy is and always has been to use everything we produce, no waste…otherwise we could not be a sustainable farm! We experimented with raw wool in our own garden – in raised beds, around trees, even as mulch (as you can see from our blueberry bush!). We knew the nutrients were there (studies have proven it!), but raw wool had its drawbacks. It could be messy, and while it suppressed some weeds, others thrived in it. We needed a better solution."

We even considered pelletizing the wool ourselves, but never quite figured out the how. So, kudos to those who cracked the code! We're now able to offer pelletized wool – the perfect solution for using our ‘less-than-perfect’ fleeces!"

PELLETIZED WOOL!

pelletized wool

These aren't just any garden amendment; they're a powerhouse of natural goodness for your plants.

Why Choose Wool Pellets?

• Sustainable Solution: We're repurposing a byproduct of sheep farming, reducing waste and creating a closed-loop system. This is good for the environment and your garden.

• Natural & Organic: Our wool pellets are a natural and organic alternative to synthetic fertilizers, so you can feel good about what you're putting into your soil.

• Slow-Release Powerhouse: Unlike chemical fertilizers that can leach away quickly, wool pellets provide a steady supply of nutrients and moisture, feeding your plants consistently over time.

• Water-Wise Gardening: Wool's incredible water-retention ability (up to 30% of its weight!) means less watering for you, and healthier, more drought-resistant plants.

• Easy to Use: Simply incorporate the pellets into your soil or potting mix – it couldn't be easier!

Our wool pellets are packed with essential nutrients:

• Nitrogen: Promotes healthy leaf growth and vibrant green foliage.

• Potassium: Strengthens stems, improves fruit and flower development, and enhances disease resistance.

• Phosphorus: Essential for root growth, blooming, and overall plant vigor.

How to Use Wool Pellets:

Wool pellets can be used in a variety of gardening applications:

• Vegetable Gardens: Give your tomatoes, peppers, and other vegetables a boost of nutrients.

• Flower Beds: Promote vibrant blooms and healthy growth in your flower gardens.

• Potted Plants: Improve drainage and water retention in container gardens.

• Seed Starting: Provide essential nutrients for seedlings and promote strong root development.

We're excited to offer this sustainable and effective gardening solution to our community. By choosing our wool pellets, you're not only giving your plants the nutrients they need, but you're also supporting sustainable farming practices and reducing waste.

Ready to give your garden the natural boost it deserves?

Try our wool pellets today and experience the difference! Visit our website [link] or contact us to learn more.

#woolpellets #sustainablegardening #organicgardening #sheepfarming #ecofriendly #gardeningtips #naturalfertilizer #slowreleasefertilizer #waterwise #growyourownfood

Fresh from the dirt: Horseradish Sauce

The holidays. A time for family, traditions, and of course, delicious food. For our family, that often means a beautiful standing rib roast. While I usually love hosting, I have to admit, sometimes the pressure of pulling it all together can stifle my culinary creativity. This year, however, was different. My sister graciously took on the hosting duties, freeing up my mind to wander and dream up ways to elevate the feast.

And then it hit me: the horseradish growing in my garden!

This wasn't just any horseradish. This horseradish has history. Planted by John’s father in the mountains of Western North Carolina, it was later transplanted to our farm in Alamance County, where it has thrived. A living connection to family and tradition, right there in my backyard.

My first few attempts at harvesting and making fresh horseradish sauce were, admittedly, a bit disappointing. But I'm a firm believer in learning from my mistakes. So, I did some research and discovered the secret to unlocking the true potential of this fiery root.

It turns out, I was harvesting the wrong size of root. My husband, John, recalled his mother's advice: always use roots smaller than your pinky. Wise words, indeed, and likely perfect for enjoying the horseradish raw, as John remembers sharing that nostril-opening burn with his mom while digging the roots. However, for making the sauce, it seems a different approach is needed.

Enter Alan Bergo, the Forager Chef. His description of the experience – "do you like hot fire, weeping and agony?" – resonated with me instantly. And the best part? You can control the level of "fire" to your liking!

The general consensus is that horseradish roots should be dug in the colder months, ideally after the first frost. There's some debate about whether to dig in months containing the letter "R" or months ending in "R." In our southeastern region, that likely means October, November, December, and even January and February.

The key to my newfound horseradish success was the size of the root. Instead of the small, pinky-sized roots I'd been using, I harvested a 2-3 inch root. That made all the difference!

Here's how I transformed that humble root into a vibrant, flavorful sauce:

Fresh Horseradish Sauce

Ingredients:

• About 1 cup fresh horseradish root, cut into cubes

• About ½ cup water

• ¼ cup white vinegar (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

• ½ tsp sugar (or to taste)

Instructions:

1. Wash the horseradish root thoroughly and peel it.

2. Grate or finely chop the root. I used my powerful Ninja blender, which worked perfectly.

3. Add the horseradish to the blender. Grind it until finely chopped.

4. Slowly add the water and white vinegar, blending until you reach your desired consistency.

5. Add salt and sugar to taste.

6. Caution: Be extremely careful when removing the blender lid. The fumes can be intense! It's best to open it briefly and step back to avoid a face full of horseradish vapor.

The result? A horseradish sauce that was both fiery and flavorful, the perfect complement to our standing rib roast. It added a welcome kick to the meal, a testament to the power of fresh, homegrown ingredients.

This year's holiday feast was made even more special by the addition of this homegrown horseradish. It was a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary flavors are found right in our own backyards. And it was a delicious tribute to family traditions, both old and new.The holidays usually include a beautiful standing rib roast for dinner and this year did not disappoint. I often host the meal and must sadly admit taking on the hosting task might leave me a bit less time for creativity . This year one of my sisters hosted so my brain was a bit more rested and full of ideas for helping to make the feast superb.

Then I had that head smacking moment … the horseradish growing in my garden!

Horseradish with history! Planted by John’s father in western NC. We transplanted it to our farm in Alamance County NC. It thrives!

Lamb Fagioli

There are so many reasons I love our weekly farmers market. The farmers, the fresh produce, the vibrant atmosphere, the connection to the land – it's all wonderful. But honestly, after 16+ years of attending, it's the people that truly make it special. It's our customers, the ones we've gotten to know over the years, who mean the most.

In those 16 years, we've shared in so many of life's milestones. We've celebrated births and marriages, offered comfort during illnesses, and simply shared the everyday joys and struggles that connect us all. We’ve watched kids grow up, go off to college, and then return with their own families, continuing the cycle. These aren't just customers; they're part of our extended farm family.

The market isn't just a place to buy and sell; it's a hub of community. It's where we exchange stories, recipes, and laughter. It’s where we build connections that go beyond a simple transaction. And it's these connections that nourish us just as much as the fresh, local food we offer.

Speaking of recipes, one of the most common questions we get asked is how we like to use our lamb cuts. So, I wanted to share one of my favorite recipes featuring our lamb sausage. And speaking of customer relationships, this was shared with us by one of our customers.

This recipe is yummy and hearty and perfect for this cold weather we’re having! Take special note of the hand written comments from the customer who first made this and decided if was worthy of passing along.

We can personally add it is a recipe worth keeping and making every year! Be sure to include a slice or two of crusty bread and a drizzle of really good olive oil and definitely finish with that parmesan!

Enjoy!

Woven Together: How wool changed my life

I never imagined that a love of Manchego cheese, with its rich, nutty, sheep milk flavor and rustic origins, would lead me down a path covered in fleece, surrounded by sheep, and forever change the fabric of my life.

Little did I know, the answer to my peace was grazing peacefully in a field, covered in wool.

The operative word here is WOOL.

I was destined to farm, but raising sheep and wool? I realize now I was destined to be right where I am, yes raising sheep but especially wool. And the WHOLE journey had to happen, from the early love of this life to the realization that I had to get mighty creative to make a go of it. As the saying goes, we almost lost our shirts, and it was from those desperate moments that I found the determination to make something happen. I remember the fear, the sleepless nights, wondering if we'd have to give up our dream. Bills were piling up, and the initial romance of farm life was wearing thin. From that despair, I felt the determination rise in my blood, hot and insistent.

I will never forget the day that my husband said, “We have to do something with all this buildup of wool or I’m going to trash it.” I’d never considered a primary bi-product of sheep is wool. I hadn’t the slightest idea what to do with it, so with each shearing, we’d sell a few fleeces, but most went to the barn to be stored. I tried my hand at a few projects, but without much extra time on my hands, an initial try or two was as far as I got. I declared from day 1 this farm would be sustainable. That was a non-negotiable! That dilemma set in motion my deep relationship with wool and all its wonderful, beautiful, natural qualities. It was like a lightbulb went off.

Suddenly, this "waste" product became a source of endless possibility.

From those early days creating with wool, I began to learn and see what this stuff could accomplish! As I tried to find markets, I learned that wool is naturally antimicrobial and that it holds 30% of its weight in water. I learned that it was being used in insulation and in commercial carpets because it's naturally fire retardant. Why then had we created commercial fabrics that had to be treated with dangerous chemicals because they weren’t fire-resistant? I couldn’t understand how we had gotten so far away from this naturally available fiber. I learned they were using it in grow walls in Europe because the wool offers natural nutrients to plants as the wool breaks down and slow releases the much needed moisture.

OH, Did I mention the wool is 100% biodegradable?

As I’ve continued to spend my time living with and learning about this wonderful NATURAL fiber, wool, I have gained more and more respect for all of its properties. I have continued to pursue its wonderful contributions as a sustainable material that we have so overlooked and need to reconsider.

This journey into wool's potential led me to a movement that perfectly aligned with the values of Stoney Mountain Farm: clean beauty.

Wool Facial Sponges

$10.00

Just last year, we ventured into the “clean beauty” area with our wool facial sponges, which we've named the "Ewe-nique Clean" Facial Sponge. I spent over a year on this one, and although the idea came to me by pure accident (while working on our EVERYTHING SPONGE), I am super excited about this one. “Clean beauty” is an evolving concept, and while we have to be careful because the standards for the concept haven’t been defined yet it is definitely a thing, it’s happening and for our health and the health of our planet we should all get on board and start the journey educating ourselves. I am tickled to death that I have a personal relationship with wool and know our product meets the “clean beauty” standards hands-down. Unlike many conventional facial sponges that rely on synthetic materials and chemical treatments, our "Ewe-nique Clean" Facial Sponge offers a gentle, all-natural alternative. Wool's natural softness and hypoallergenic properties make it ideal for even the most sensitive skin. “Clean beauty” means setting a rigorous standard when it comes to the safety of ingredients and formulations and offers first and foremost a chemical-free product for our skin care regimes, but also embraces sustainable sourcing of materials and sustainable packaging options.

✅ We are happy to meet all those standards.

And, our 100% wool Ewe-nique facial sponge, after many uses can go right in the compost bin where it will biodegrade and feed the soil.

Visit our website to explore our full range of sustainable wool products.

We invite you to join us on our journey towards a more sustainable future…one fleece at a time.

.

Seventeen Years of Sheep, Sweat, and Manchego: A Love Story

There is always time in the day for cheese!

Seventeen years ago, I was just a wide-eyed dreamer with a serious Manchego obsession.

Today? I'm a seasoned sheep farmer, with callouses on my hands, a healthy selection of jeans and farm boots and the faint aroma of lanolin permanently embedded in my clothes.

People ask me all the time…How did you get into this?

It all started with a simple craving. That irresistible nutty, buttery flavor, the firm yet creamy texture of Manchego cheese... it was my culinary kryptonite. But the deeper I delved into the world of Manchego and other sheep milk cheeses I realized that the very reason this is truly exceptional stuff was the high butter fat content of sheep’s milk.
Logic, as it often does, went out the window. "I need my own sheep," I declared, much to the amusement (and slight concern) of my friends and family but more importantly my accountant!

Now, 17 years later, this farm has transformed into a haven for these gentle creatures. Rolling green pastures (okay, maybe slightly less rolling), a couple cozy barns that have seen their fair share of cattle, horses, hay and tractors but now sheep and lambing seasons, and the constant, comforting murmur of bleating sheep. The biggest difference is milking and cheese making did not end up being the direction this farm took, (except for my personal benefit). I completed my courses in cheese making but later realized how confining a milking operation would be. Shoot! Farming is all encompassing as it is but a dairy operation is 10x more! So, sheep were still the focus, just not milking and cheese!

It hasn't been all sunshine and idyllic pastoral scenes, mind you. But through it all, the joy of watching my flock grow and graze, the satisfaction of being in nature, daily and the sheer delight of shepherding has made every challenge worthwhile.
From Novice to (Somewhat) Knowledgeable Shepherd:
Over the years, I've learned a thing or two about sheep farming. I can tell you the difference between sheep breeds at a glance, my shearing skills leave a lot to be desired (we hire that out and make it an annual event), and I've learned a heck of a lot about wool.

What's Next?
Well, the dream continues! The more I learn about farming and sheep (mostly sheep wool) the more I’m excited to continue and although I’m not making cheese it was truly my love of Manchego that started me on the path.

So, another reason I will forever be grateful for Manchego!