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?
gardening
,
Nature
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DISCOVERING THE BEAUTY OF SPRINGTIME
May 5, 2025
Wild Strawberries
Rhubarb
Sumac
Gooseberry
Ramp
Wild Ginger
Chives
Yarrow
Bee Balm
Leftover fur from bunny nest
Empty bunny nest
Hobbies
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I'M OBSESSED! CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF NATURAL DYES
May 1, 2025
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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