CLEAN HANDS, KIND HEART: SOAP FOR WILDLIFE

May 20, 2025

Are you a fan of artisanal soaps and a wildlife enthusiast? If so, these soap bars are just for you! I'm currently on a mission to raise funds for Wildlife Rehabilitation & Release (WRR). If you're keen on contributing to a cause that aids wildlife, consider purchasing one or both of our unique soaps. Every penny from the sales goes directly to WRR, assisting in rescue operations, rehabilitation efforts, and educational programs.

Wash for Minnesota Wildlife Fundraiser

Wash for Minnesota Wildlife Fundraiser




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ANOTHER YEAR AT THE FRIENDS PLANT SALE

May 10, 2025

Looking for plants at the Friends Plant Sale

Yesterday's Friends Plant Sale was a delightful experience, as usual. The weather was perfect for browsing the wide selections of herbs, flowers, and veggies, and we had a lot of fun choosing our garden lineup for the year. It seemed like the busiest season yet, but the event was incredibly well-organized, making the flow smooth and enjoyable. While the temptation to buy every plant was strong, I managed to stick to the essentials. Gotta save that money!! Now, I'm eagerly anticipating watching everything flourish and grow. I'm already thinking about eating those sweet peppers. 😊


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DISCOVERING THE BEAUTY OF SPRINGTIME

May 5, 2025


Wild Strawberries

There's just something magical about this time of year! Spring and Fall in Minnesota are my absolute favorites, and I'm currently riding that springtime high. Give me the crisp air and pumpkin spice of Fall, with those stunning colorful newly fallen leaves, any day. But springtime? It's like the world is hitting the reset button. Everything is bursting back to life, baby animals are popping up all over the place, and the birds are putting on a concert every morning. I love it! I practically bounce out the door like a kid, eager to spot the first signs of new life. Today, I even found an empty rabbit next - those little guys must have just hopped out because I didn't spot it yesterday. Can you believe mama rabbit chose to nest right next to the driveway? Risky move!! Now I'm plotting all sorts of botanical adventures with the emerging plants - dyes, baked goods, tinctures, you name it. This season is just brimming with beauty and possibility. All we need now is a little sunshine and warmth, and we'll be in paradise! What do you think, is springtime one of your favorite seasons too?


Rhubarb


Sumac



Gooseberry


Ramp


Wild Ginger


Chives


Yarrow


Bee Balm


Leftover fur from bunny nest


Empty bunny nest



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I'M OBSESSED! CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF NATURAL DYES

May 1, 2025

Coloring Protein Fiber Naturally

Potassium Aluminum Sulfate - Cream of Tartar - Madder Root

So, I've been playing around with natural dyes for a while now, mostly just for fun little projects like Easter eggs or small pieces of fabric. But, I'm a spinner and knitter, and it finally dawned on me that I should try dyeing my own wool yarn. I started with a small 50g skein and some madder root, and wow, I'm totally hooked! The color was absolutely stunning, and since I have a ton of wool from years of going to the Shepherd's Harvest Festival, I'm diving headfirst into this new adventure. My plan is to spend the next few months learning everything I possibly can about nature dyes, experimenting with all sorts of plants from nature. Once I've got a few go-to recipes, I want to offer classes for homeschooled kids. When my youngest was homeschooled, I was so thankful for the moms who shared their creative talents with us, and now I want to pay it forward. If you have any favorite natural dyes you love to use, please share them with me! I'm always looking for new ideas and inspiration. 


Mordanting Wool Yarn


Creating Dye Bath


Dyeing Yarn


Finished Product!




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