RAMSAY FARMS: BBQ weekend!

Monday, August 27, 2007

BBQ weekend!

Well I can't believe that the BBQ weekend is already gone. It was so nice to finally meet Sabrina and it is always nice to see Gail V as well. Gail brought a friend with, Mary and her Airedale Molly to visit and it sure was an educational and fun-filled afternoon!

I must say I was a bit stressed when upon returning from AM working to find Sabrina already at my place! I swear Sabrina could not have been a day older than me (I'm 27) and although she never mentioned her real age I am sure she cannot be much over 30 at the MOST! She's a super sweet lady with a wealth of knowledge and just the greatest personality you could imagine.

Gail and Rayna decided my place was a good place to pass sheep off at so Gail brought Rayna's three ewes and that gorgeous bersugget ram lamb. he has a TON of fleece!

Gail and Mary were great to talk with and I always enjoy Gail's company. She is one of the nicest people you will ever meet and I don't think she has a mean bone in her body!

I really was thankful for the kind words on my sheep and their fleeces from all those present. The smaller numbers allowed for a better chance of getting to know them one on one. We enjoyed some wonderful burgers and lamb brats (thanks Gail for the brats!) and some wonderful brownies supplied by Sabrina and some fresh veggies from my garden. I hear the cherry tomatoes were a hit!

I hope next year more people can attend the BBQ wherever we decide to have it. A day with fellow sheep people makes us realize we are not the only crazy person out there raising sheep!

:)

2 comments:

Sabrina Wille Erickson said...: Well, if you're going to tell me I still look like I'm in my 20's Garrett, you can be my new best friend! LOL I'm definitely old enough to consider that an enormous compliment.

I had a great time at your place! You are off to a great start with your flock. I admired several Shetland individuals, and all of them were very soft.

Sorry I caused you a bit of anxiety about being there before you arrived home. I really was only 5 minutes ahead of you. Ask your charming Dad. And believe me, it's probably the first time I've ever been early in my life.; August 28, 2007 at 8:40 AM
Gail V said...: Oh my, Garrett, you are so flattering. Thanks for smokin' all those folks who haven't met me yet! Did I say how glad I am to have you join the ranks of MN Shetland breeders?
Mary and I had so much fun at your farm, looking at all the critters and plants you grow. I was surprised how much Mary, a non-spinner, was taken with the fleece examination/discussion. Now she wants to spin!
Thanks for a wonderful day in the North country.
Gail; August 30, 2007 at 11:31 PM

Who we are

Ramsay Farms is situated in the northeastern part of Ottertail County, near Perham, Minnesota. This family farm of 320 acres has been in the Ramsay family for five generations, dating back to 1892. Today our farm prides itself on our Simmental cattle, Shetland Sheep and BlueFaced Leicester sheep. We strive to breed animals that closest match the breed standards given to them, and mindful of production, health and longevity in our animals as well.

In spring of 2016, there was a purchase of 32 acres in Green County, Wisconsin to accommodate Garrett for his work in that region. The animals have for the most part been moved to that location. Both locations will work in tandem to continue educating and promoting these animals and this way of life.

From the Shetland Sheep Society

"Shetland sheep have for generations been noted for their very soft and well crimped fleece. The wool is the finest of all native breeds and shows an amazing variety of colours and patterns. There are 11 main whole colours and 30 recognised markings.

By selecting from coloured fleeces a range of naturally coloured yarn can be produced. This eliminates the need for dyeing and therefore retains the soft feel of the natural fibre and is favoured by those who prefer a totally natural approach.

Shetland wool fibres are of a simple construction witha central cortex covered by a thin scaly cuticle, and have an average diameter of about 23 microns. However there is a range from 10-20 microns for neck and shoulder wool to 25to 35 microns for britch wool. the average staple length is 3.5 inches. The amount of crimp varies, and is most important in providing the 'bounce' required for knitwear. There is a positive correlation between fineness and crimp, with wool of the finest quality being crimped at between 8 and 12 to the inch. Wool from shetland sheep is used to produce gossamer lace, the famous 'Fair Isle' knitwear, and fine tweeds. Pure bred Shetland sheep tend to shed their fleece in sprin. The growth of new fleece can cause a rise or weak point and where this is present the fleece can sometimes be plucked or 'rooed' by hand. The timing of this can be different in each sheep, however, it is worth taking the care to get it right as rooed fleece can be amongst the softest because the fibres have no harsh cut ends as occurs with a sheared fleece.

Shetland fleece can be handspun straight from the fleece or made into rolags and then woollen spun. It can also be sorsted spun by hand, used on a peg loom or handwoven. It also felts well using either dry or wet methods. When processed commercially the wool can be made into the finest lightweight worsted cloth or heavier weight, harder wearing fabrics and tweeds."

RAMSAY FARMS

Monday, August 27, 2007

BBQ weekend!

2 comments:

A long time coming!

Fine Fleece Shetland Sheep Association

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