Our New Additions From The Lavender Fleece Farn

    Boy, I tell you, sometimes technology wants to be difficult and spew out all sorts of hiccups!  This past week was one of those times.  But that's neither here nor there now...the website server is well again and I have a story to tell.
    I just love when dreams come true.  I've had a particular one for a good three years or more now.  It was to bring a few Icelandic sheep home from The Lavender Fleece, which is a farm up in Midland, MI.  Last October Eldest and I went to the open house they have every year to see their flock up close and personal so we could drool over them.  Ok, so Eldest didn't drool...and no I didn't actually drool on them either, but you know what I mean.  Darryl and Laurie, the fantastic couple who, along with their daughter, make up The Lavender Fleece were busy with all of their guests, but were still able to make time to visit with eveyone that paid them a visit.  This was when my dream was started to come true.
    You might have noticed this past weekend I wasn't at the Chillicothe Farmer's Market.  In fact, I even had several people tell me I wasn't there.  That's becuase our family took a trip to The Lavender Fleece to pick up our Icelandic lambs.  On our way there we stopped at Uncle Dave and Aunt Carol's for the night.  It was a quick visit, but Uncle Dave grilled some burgers for dinner and made us pancakes in the morning before we headed out, and when we mix food with a family visit it makes for a grand time.  We really enjoyed seeing them again!  Aunt Carol even drove up to Midland with us to pick up the sheep.
    When we got to The Lavender Fleece after numerous child potty breaks I was so excited it was hard to contain myself.  As soon as we got out of the van Darryl and Laurie were there to greet us.  They are such a friendly couple!  Laurie took the time to explain some sheep raising and record keeping details with the Kid when he asked her if she'd answer some questions for his 4-H sheep breeding project.  We both learned a lot!  I appreciate Laurie taking the time out for the Kid and also the Kid for being such a good listener.  After that Laurie and I had a chance to talk sheep and swap some stories while everyone else toured around the farm.  Then the family decided it was time for us to start heading on down the road because we had a long drive back.
    Here's the thing...we went up there to pick up a pair of Icelandic lambs...that means two.  We ended up bring back three lambs - the pair of Icelandics and also a Leicester Longwool ram lamb for the Kid.  Leicester, by the way, is pronounced Lester.  Don't feel silly about how you pronounced it the first time.  I messed it up, too.  Anway, through Laurie's kindness and generosity the Kid is starting a new sheep breeding venture.  He is so excited about the future with his new sheep!  Leicester Longwool sheep are one of those breeds that have declined in numbers to the point where they are in critical danger of disappearing.  In fact, at one point there weren't any in North America at all.  The Lavender Fleece and a small number of other breeders in North America are working to bring this fabulous breed back to where it should (and deserves to) be.  We are proud to have been able to bring one of these fantastic sheep home and are excited about the Kid's future showing and breeding to help educate and boost the Leicester Longwool population.  He has big dreams and plans for this litle lamb!  
    This whole trip was quick.  Left early Saturday, got back late Sunday.  I think we spent more time in the van then out.  Although if I factor in all those potty breaks...  You can see a couple of pictures up there of our two new new Icelandic lambs and the Kid's Leicester Longwool lamb.  They are magnificent!  I want to thank The Lavender Fleece for being such awesome stewards of both Icelandic and Leicester Longwool sheep!  Smiling & Waving, Sharon    

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