Adventures at Agape Hill Farm

Construction has begun.

2011-06-14T11:30:00.000-07:00

The workday last Saturday was a tremendous success in spite of the less than cooperative weather. Thank you to the hard-working and talented crew that put the top on the foundation and got things off to a great start. Donations are now needed to start framing out the walls! See below for how to contribute...

Let the construction begin!!

2011-05-16T10:57:00.000-07:00

Spring has finally arrived and with it the first construction day for the Kelly House Project!

Saturday, June 11 starting at 8 am, a crew will be working to complete the floor of the new addition atop the foundation walls. The funds for this part of the project were raised over the winter months. Additional donations will be needed for the next step of adding the walls and roof.

Donations may be sent to:

The Kelly House Project

c/o Agape Hill Farm

618 Houston Hill Road

Hardwick, VT 05843

We'll post pictures of the completed work after 6/11!

Winter Update for the Kelly House Project

2010-12-28T10:40:00.001-08:00

Thank you to the many people who have already donated to the Kelly House Project. We are in the process of setting up the donation account at Union Bank (donation checks will be cashed and deposited as soon as the paperwork is complete for the account). Donations cans have been put out at area businesses. A Dinner Dance is being planned for February.

Construction is scheduled to begin as soon as possible this coming Spring. We are maintaining a list of volunteer carpenters and are looking for a crew chief to oversee the daily work.

Christmas at the Frost household was merry indeed. Kelly and her daughter greatly appreciate the warm wishes and gifts received and celebrated in their tiny home with dreams of Christmas next year in the new addition!

2010-11-10T09:06:00.000-08:00

KELLY HOUSE UPDATE:

The materials list is on hand at Poulin Lumber and donations may be made there directly. You can donate lumber, a window, nails etc.! Cash donations have started to come in and we are excited to get started with the building.

There is a need for a crew chief! This person would oversee the construction--line up work for the volunteer builders and keep things flowing smoothly. Anyone who is interested should contact Nancy Kish or Tom Younkman (numbers below).

2010-09-30T10:08:00.001-07:00

Project: Kelly's House

Update

Plans are almost complete and a materials list will be ready some time next week. The project is ready to accept donations and volunteer builders. Here's how you can help:

To Donate to the Project:

Option 1:

Make a donation for materials directly at Poulin Lumber in Hardwick. Just let them know you want to donate to the Kelly Frost Project and they will provide you with a list of items still needed. You may pay for all or part of any item on the list.

Option 2:

To make a donation, please make checks payable to The Kelly House Project and send to:

Nancy Kish

Attention: The Kelly House Project

618 Houston Hill Road

Hardwick,VT 05843

For more information or to volunteer to work on the Project:

Contact Tom Younkman (Project contact and AgrAbility Specialist) at 802-229-6419 or Nancy Kish (Local Contact) at 802-472-3711.

2010-09-15T09:22:00.000-07:00

Agape Hill Farm is privileged to be part of a community-based effort to help a local farm family. We have volunteered our blogspot and other venues of communication to help get the word out about this worthwhile project:

Barn Builders, a local peer support group for farmers with disabilities, is working thru Vermont AgrAbility Project, The Vermont Center for Independent Living and the Northeast Kingdom Community Action Agency, Inc. (KEKCA) to help a local woman and her daughter realize a dream. (See story below) Barn Builders is looking to the community for help to complete a modest addition for Kelly and her daughter. The foundation has already been poured and a local architect Gregory Paus of Silver Ridge Design Inc in Hyde Park has volunteered to design the construction plans which will include a second bedroom, kitchen and workspace. Larry Hamel of Cornerstone Restoration Corporation is helping to oversee and coordinate construction. With donations for materials and volunteer builders, it is hoped the family will be able to enjoy the living space this winter. This will be a life changing gift to Kelly and her daughter and one that will allow them to pursue their desire to live independently. For questions contact Tom Younkman (Project contact and AgrAbility Specialist) at 802-229-6419 to donate or volunteer, please contact Nancy Kish (Local Contact) at 802-472-3711.

Kelly's Story

2010-09-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

Kelly with her Icelandic Ram, Harley

Kelly Frost moved to Hardwick to live a simple life on a small homestead. She and her young daughter were starting a fiber farm (sheep, goats, rabbits, etc.) and making plans to enlarge the small camp in which they were living when, in 2007, everything came to a screeching halt. Kelly was involved in a serious car accident and suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). TBI is a challenging disability because people often appear no different than they did before their accident. The effects are not readily visible, but are very real and include memory loss, concentration and attention problems and communication and language issues. This has left Kelly unable to return to her job and for a time brought work at the farm to a standstill. Now that her condition has stabilized and with the help of the groups listed above, Kelly is developing a business plan though (NEKCA) to make the fiber farm reality. She has taken many steps forward, but one challenge overshadows all future plans. Kelly and her daughter have been living in a one room camp with a small bathroom and no kitchen.

There is no room for basic appliances such as a refrigerator and stove, no private space and no room for Kelly to work on the fiber art projects that could provide a sustainable living for her and her daughter. This seems like a very sad ending to one woman's dream, but we are confident that the amazing community in which we live will NOT let the story end here!!

May Mayhem

2010-05-18T19:54:00.000-07:00

May is a busy month here at Agape Hill Farm. We finished up our two spring workshops and are getting ready to begin a special short-term workshop to prepare for the first annual AHF Llama Show to be held on June 25th.

We are also busy welcoming school classes for spring field trips, visiting area nursing homes and gearing up for the big Hardwick Spring Festival. The festival is held on the Saturday before Memorial Day (May 29th this year) and starts off with a parade through town. Our llamas will be part of the parade and then will spend the afternoon at Atkins Field (on Granite Street off Rt. 15) where they will be working at leading kids through the obstacle course. (Shhh...don't tell! The kids think THEY are leading the llamas!)

We are looking forward to some great adventures for everyone!!!

Spring Adventures

2010-04-23T10:01:00.001-07:00

Lots of exciting things are happening at the farm this spring--so many in fact it's hard to find time to add to the Blog! For more day to day adventures, please check out our Facebook Page (see link at right).

Monday Felting Workshop

Sir working in the obstacle course

Lucy goes for a ride into town.

Our kids after a morning working on the llama trail.

Thursday Farm Workshop

2010-03-29T05:27:00.000-07:00

It's our LLAMA-VERSARY!!!

This past weekend marked our second anniversary as llama owners! It has gone by so quickly yet it is hard to believe we ever lived without them. It has certainly been a crash course and we have learned a tremendous amount over the past two years. We are hoping to celebrate by welcoming a new cria soon. Summer is now almost 4 weeks overdue!!

NEW* Fiber Group

2010-03-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

Heart of Vermont

Fiber Group

Enjoy getting together with fellow fiber folks from our area to work on your current project or learn a new craft. Use our materials ($15) or bring your own (No charge). All levels and visitors welcome!

Join us from 9-11 am on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of every month at

618 Houston Hill Road
Hardwick, VT 05843
802-472-3711 (ask for Nancy)

*Agape Hill Farm is a member of The Heart of Vermont Chamber of Commerce

Spring Afterschool Workshop Schedule

2010-03-03T16:13:00.000-08:00

Llama Club & Fiber Workshop

Mondays from 3:30-5:00

March 22-May 10 (8 weeks)

Cost: $80 (includes materials)

With warm weather on the horizon, we will be able to do more llama walks on a variety of trails. Fiber crafts will include both needle felted and wet felted projects. The winter workshop students crafted some incredible creations and we are excited to see what will come from this next workshop!

Llama Club & Farm Workshop

Thursdays from 3:30-5:00

March 25-May 13 (8 weeks)

Cost: $64

What a great time we had this winter in the farm workshop (and not just because the chores got

done!). Each student finds tasks and animals to which they are particularly well-suited and all learn to work together on the chores that are the least favorite! :0) As spring arrives we will get to enjoy some new activities like starting baby chicks, designing new barn space, tending for llama crias and planning gardens.

We will also be able to enjoy more llama walks and explore new trails.

m 3:30-5:00

Llama Show Workshop

Thursdays from 3:30-5:00

5/ 27, (no class 6/3) 6/10, 17, & 24

and Llama Show on Friday, June 25^th at 4 pm

Cost: $25

Four preparation classes for Agape Hill Farm’s first Llama Show!! The Llama show will include our workshop students and individual llama walkers from HES and Heartbeet Lifesharing. The show will include individual obstacle course demonstrations, judges’ review and prizes. After the show there will be time for a hot dog roast and family trail walk. (Any students who aren’t already participating in the Hardwick Spring Festival Parade, may also walk their llama in the parade and all students may help with the AHF booth at the Agricultural Festival at Atkin’s field!)

Multi-Workshop Special:

Register with payment by 3/22 for both spring workshops and the Llama Show workshop is free!

**All spring workshop participants will also receive a coupon for $20 off a summer workshop membership.

The summer workshop schedule will be released shortly and will follow a slightly different schedule. We will be opening the workshops to vacationers and are excited that this will give our “regular” workshop students a chance to teach as well as learn!

To register please call or email Nancy Kish at Agape Hill Farm

472-3711

enkagape@aol.com

Beat the Winter Blues Fiber Workshop

2010-02-06T13:13:00.000-08:00

Fiber Art
Workshops

Wet-Felted Art
Using a variety of types and colors of fiber, craft a beautiful and unique necklace or ornament.

Needle-Felted Art
Use natural and dyed fibers to design an ornament or wall hanging with needle-felting techniques. You will be surprised at how simple this art form is yet how complex it can be!

Dates: Saturday, February 20th and Saturday, February 27th
Time: 10 am to 12 noon
Cost: $40 for both weeks (includes material cost)
Location: Agape Hill Farm, 618 Houston Hill Road, Hardwick, VT
Please register by 2/6/2010 by calling Nancy Kish at 472-3711 or email to enkagape@aol.com

2009-12-09T18:33:00.000-08:00

Announcing Winter After School Workshops

2009-11-28T15:42:00.001-08:00

After School Llama Club

WINTER OPTIONS

Llamas and Farm Life

Each session will start with a llama trail walk and then we will work on the farm feeding and grooming the animals (llamas, bunnies, etc.), cleaning stalls & cages and learning basic animal care. Limited to 8 students—first come basis.

Cost: $48* for 6 weeks.

Thursdays from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.

Llamas and Fiber Art

Each session will start with a llama trail walk and then we will learn fiber art methods and techniques including hand and drum carding, wet felting and needle felting. Students will make several projects through the course of the workshop.

Cost: $60* for 6 weeks (includes craft materials)

Mondays from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m.

Llama club workshops are for children ages 8 and up. Sessions will start the week of January 11^th.

Please register before 12/24/09

Call Nancy Kish at 472-3711

www.agapehill farm.com

Hardwick Area Cub Scouts Help on the Trail

2009-10-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed a second visit from two Cub Scout groups last weekend. They cut roots and rake a section of the trail and did a tremendous job. We really appreciate them! Afterward they enjoyed the fruit of the labor by going on a llama walk and also trying out the obstacle course. Thanks again, everyone!

Llama walking in the Fall

2009-10-09T18:01:00.000-07:00

Nancy, Sean and Sunny enjoy the trail.

Feeding Sunny is Sean's favorite part of the visit.

Willie runs in the field with his friend Madeline.

The After School Llama Club takes a break by a cornfield during their Foliage Walk.

It's a beautiful day for a llama walk, a beautiful day for a llama, would you be mine? Could you be mine?

Sean from Heartbeet and the After School Llama Club took advantage of the better weather on Thursday afternoon to take a walk and enjoy the beautiful Fall foliage. Looks like the llamas enjoyed it too.

A Fall Weekend at the Farm

2009-09-28T09:10:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful weekend we had on the farm...

We welcomed a local boy scout troop who volunteered to help clean up the trails. We look forward to them coming again in October.

The trails are wonderful with the leaves turning and falling---and no bugs!

The sunflowers are still blooming and the llamas are still enjoying grass in the pastures.

George watches over all the goings on from atop his favorite spot.

"He has made everything beautiful in its time..." Ecc. 3:11

What next?

2009-09-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

In the last month we have welcomed a few new animals to the farm...

First came Jack. Jack is an 8 year old Morgan gelding. He's a beautiful boy and rides well. He's a little unsure though after having a rough start in life. Now that he's been here awhile he is starting to relax and learn to trust us.

Three days after Jack came, we got a call from a neighbor who graciously gave us Ernie. Ernie is a 23 year old Appaloosa gelding who is as close to bomb-proof as you can get. He's a terrific horse and so relaxing to ride. Adding him to the farm has been a tremendous blessing.

Another neighbor (don't we live in an awesome community?) gifted us 4 Indian Runner ducks. They have been named Abigail, Milky Way, Snickers and Aflac. It is such fun to watch them frolic in the water and Abigail is giving us an egg almost every day.

We keep saying we are about done getting new animals, but you never know!

Vacation at home on the farm...

2009-09-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

We've often said we'd like to take a vacation and just stay home. That's just how our Labor Day weekend turned out and it was terrific! We enjoyed the company of some good friends we hadn't seen in several years and had a chance to relax and take in the beauty of God's creation. It was nice to pause and soak in the blessings of our farm for a few days.

Heading off on the llama trail. Mother and daughter pairs.

Sam/Willie and Nate/George lead the way... A big smile from Calvin and Whoopie.

Chris tries his powers of persuasion on Lolly. George shows Nate how to walk the maze.

Llama Demonstration

2009-08-20T13:46:00.001-07:00

Our llama workshop ended today with a demonstration for family and friends.

There were parents, grandparents, and even former-kindergarten teachers in attendance!

The kids and llamas showed off their skills on the obstacle course.

Their hard work and bonding really showed.

Everyone then spent some time walking around the farm and getting the llamas acquainted with their families. Then the kids recruited family members to give the obstacle course a try.
They quickly learned that it wasn't as easy as the kids made it look--bonding time is hugely important when working with llamas.

Thanks to everyone for your hard work and for making this a very fun workshop!!

Farm Tour

2009-08-16T15:57:00.000-07:00

We hosted another tour of the farm this past Wednesday.

It was loads of fun and everyone took a turn walking the llamas in the obstacle course.
Busy putting up hay now to feed the critters this winter. We sure needed to see this sunny weather!

Fiber Workshop...

2009-08-10T11:49:00.000-07:00

Some fun pictures from Week Two of our Fiber Workshop...

Llama Workshop

2009-08-06T12:43:00.000-07:00

Today was our first llama workshop at Agape Hill Farm.

We had 5 boys aged 8-14. What an awesome group of kids!

Theses guys were just absolutely amazing with llamas--they developed trusting relationships through exploring the farm together,

,

hiking on the trail,

and starting work on the obstacle course.

I can hardly wait until next Thursday!

Blueberries!!!

2009-08-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

The blueberries have ripened! They are available at $2.50/pint in our farm stand or in the delicious desserts at Claire's Restaurant. (Chef Stephen tells me they are in blueberry upside down cake at the moment--YUM!!)

What's new at Agape Hill...

2009-07-31T16:40:00.000-07:00

It's been just a little over a week since I put a post up, but with all that has been going on it seems like ages. We've added quite a few new members to the menagerie. Last Friday we brought home 3 Icelandic Sheep from Richmond (in the mini-van), of course.

My friends on facebook have already heard about some of their escapades!

Saturday two pygora goats (cross between pygmy and angora) arrived.

Then on Sunday we took a drive to visit some good friends in Grafton and picked up 3 new Angora rabbits at a nearby farm. These kind and generous folks also blessed us with a pickup load of equipment--shearing stand, rabbit hutches, chicken feeders and nests, etc.

Not only have we added some very cool animals, but we have also made some wonderful new friends! It looks like there will be one more addition to the farm before I get banned from Craig's List, but you'll just have to check back later to see what it is...

Llamas at the Library!!

2009-07-23T19:45:00.000-07:00

Whoopie Pie and Anakin visited the Jeudevine Library today for the llamas at the library workshop.

They both loved meeting the children and watching them make wet-felted bouncing balls.

Then everyone took a walk around the neighborhood together.

What a fun afternoon!!

Pat's Family Comes to Visit...

2009-07-23T18:52:00.000-07:00

Looking for something fun to do with the grandkids this summer?

Why not bring them to Agape Hill Farm to meet the llamas
and take a farm tour.

That's what our friend, Pat, did and everyone had a great time petting bunnies,
feeding animals and walking llamas on the obstacle course.

What a great way to spend a Vermont summer afternoon!

Global Campus Visit

2009-07-22T07:51:00.000-07:00

We had a most amazing time yesterday with a visit from the Hardwick Global Campus group.

They came to Agape Hill for a llama workshop.

Not only did EVERYONE take a turn walking a llama through the obstacle course,

but they also learned about llamas, fiber and really enjoyed the angora rabbits. The kids and I had so much fun. Hope you'll be back again soon!

Trail Building Day

2009-07-19T20:14:00.000-07:00

The entire family (including his girlfriend) celebrated Eddie's birthday this weekend by having a workday on the new llama walking trail. (Before you think we're crazy---that's what HE said he wanted to do!) The first section of the trail is now ready to use and we're off to a good start. Here's a few pictures from the workday...

All things work together for good...

2009-07-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

True to my usual pattern, I planted radishes, watered them, weeded them and then never got around to harvesting most of them. It was rainy and then we were on vacation and before I knew it, they had gone to seed and were producing lovely flowers. I was feeling a bit guilty about this as I went out to work in the garden yesterday. It was then I heard a buzzing sound and saw several of Ed's honeybees busy collecting nectar from my "radish flowers." I was reminded of Romans 8:28: "And we know that all things work together for good for them that love God, for them who are called according to His purpose." Our heavenly Father knew that I would let those radishes go to seed long before it happened and sent the honeybees to enjoy the flowers. This fall we will enjoy the honey they produce for us from the nectar. Now THAT is working together for good!

Also thought you'd like to see a picture of Sir, the new llama AFTER his shearing! Doesn't he look so much more comfortable? He's settling in really well and becoming a favorite for walking.

Heartbeet Family Weekend

2009-06-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

What an awesome weekend! I've thoroughly enjoyed being part of Family Weekend at Heartbeet Lifesharing. Yesterday was the open house and this morning was the family brunch. It was a great opportunity to meet all the family members I have heard so much about.

This morning Connor's family came to see the llamas! Anakin was happy to meet his friend's family and show off how well they work together! I was very proud of both of them. I'm afraid I didn't take any pictures (this is an older pic), but as soon as I get some from the family I'll put them up. Thanks so much for visiting--hope we'll see you again soon!

What's happening at the farm this week...

2009-06-24T15:06:00.001-07:00

You can tell it's been a busy time--not a lot of time for blogging. We've been busy working on the picnic area, moving a shed to the pasture for the horses, starting restoration of the antique tractors, overseeing the trail construction and shearing llamas. We also welcomed home a new llama yesterday! His name is Sir Black Lightning. He's by far the biggest llama we have. He was living with a very nice family nearby who were a bit intimidated (understandably) by his size and felt he needed a new home. We are excited to try him out here and work at overcoming his fears--like being touched anywhere but his face! Two of us walked him the 3 mile trip home. He did great--never spooked once, but did lie down in the road for a rest halfway! It's so nice to be enjoying summer on the farm!

Here are some pictures of Sir, moving the roof of the shed and Eddie's homemade tractor restoration paint booth!

Trooper's First Haircut

2009-06-14T06:19:00.001-07:00

After the party yesterday, Trooper had his first shearing. He wasn't particularly excited about the event, but is feeling a lot cooler and more comfortable now!

Happy Birthday, Alexis!

2009-06-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

We were thrilled to celebrate Alexis' birthday with her and her friends today. She walked Whoopie Pie, her favorite llama, through the new obstacle course. (See there video at the end of this post.) They did a wonderful job! Then her friends all had a try walking Whoopie, George or Mexia. It was a lot of fun for the girls AND the llamas! We all thought George was pretty funny standing on top of the platform and looking around to be sure everyone saw him! There were some mighty fine llama walkers in this group.

Hope you all had as much fun as we did! Thank you for visiting Agape Hill Farm!!

2009 East Hardwick Children's Parade

2009-06-06T20:31:00.000-07:00

Kitty and Cookie made their first public appearance today at the East Hardwick parade. They traveled very well in the van and did quite well meeting people--Cookie especially. Anakin Darth Llama went as well and acted like the seasoned professional he is becoming. He even went into the church to check out the bake sale!

Danny & Kristina and their llamas won 1st prize for pet entries and everyone had a great time!

Kindergarten Field Trip!!

2009-06-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

Here are some more pictures from the kindergarten field trip. Sorry for not getting them online sooner--my own kids had field trips this week and events in the evening as well. Such a busy time of year!

Your children were such fun--hope you will come for a visit again soon!!

Favorite Field Trip Pictures

2009-06-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed visits from two elementary school groups yesterday. 2 kindergarten classes came for an interactive farm visit and a 6th grade girls group set off on a llama hike. I'll be posting more pictures later this week, but in the meantime here are my favorites:

Anakin's Shearing

2009-05-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

Anakin Darth Llama got his first spring haircut today. Overall he stood pretty well, but he has the patience of most typical teenagers. I tried, unsuccessfully, to convince him that things could go much faster if he just stayed still--not to mention if he would stay out of the burdocks in the future!

We spent the rest of the day running fence for the pasture and making plans to build a new riding corral for the horses. It was very nice to see the sun. Look what else Kristina saw...

Welcome home Thonolan & Jondalar!

2009-05-29T19:18:00.000-07:00

The llamas gather at the fence this afternoon to check out our latest additions.

Thonolan & Jondalar are two anogora goat wethers who come from Monkton. They are recently shorn, and are pretty cool looking. They have awesome horns and great personalities. I have wanted goats since I was three and these two are perfect! In addition to being just plain fun, they will add some beautiful mohair to our collection of fiber.

Work continues on the llama walk trail and has begun on the picnic/play area. The rain sure hasn't helped things, but we are still making progress!

We'd like to hear from you...

2009-05-27T07:47:00.000-07:00

We are curious who is reading the blog and hoping you enjoy it. So...next time you are here, please leave a comment, become a follower, or ask a question. We look forward to hearing from you!

Selah...pause and reflect.

2009-05-25T19:42:00.000-07:00

My women's Sunday school class talked this week about the importance of taking time to "selah," Hebrew for "pause and reflect." This is a good time to do just that:

Spring has definitely arrived. The early vegetables are peaking through the soil and the apple trees are blossoming.

Hardwick's Spring festival had its usual parade with the first-time ever addition of our own Agape Hill llamas. George, Anakin, Lucy and Whoopie Pie were terrific and we all has so much fun!

Then we headed down to Atkins field for the first annual Ag Fair. The llamas were with us and we also demonstrated carding and felting. It was a wonderful time introducing lots of people to the world of llamas and fiber.

Sunday Kristina and I drove to Topsham to get two new angora rabbits--Libby & Bailey. They are adorable and SO soft.

Monday Lucy had her first haircut. We used scissors instead of electric clippers so it would be a calmer event for her. Check out her new "do."

The first bridge was built on our hiking trail today. The logging team recruited Danny to help. He was quite impressed with their work ethic and had a great day. They also built a cool bench for a rest along the way. I took Ande out to check out the bridge. He is not quite as confident in the guys' building abilities as I am and refused to cross. This same llama wouldn't step foot on even damp soil the other day and now he chose to jump in the mud (pulling me over in the process) rather than step on the bridge. We had a lengthy discussion, and I finally convinced him it could be trusted.

I know all you future llama walkers will be glad he figured this out!

As we reflect on this past weekend, we are so thankful for the life we have been given here, the incredibly perfect weather we enjoyed, our terrific children, and God's grace.

Forestry Games and New Additions...

2009-05-17T17:44:00.000-07:00

It's been an eventful weekend. On Friday we spent a good part of the day in town at Atkins field watching the 2009 Forestry Games. Our 3 guys who are working on the llama walking trail all competed and did an amazing job! GMTCC won first place and we are proud to know we have the very best working for us!

Saturday we drove all over picking up new critters! In the morning we headed to Westford to get our piglets! They are still awaiting names, but have settled in nicely.

In the afternoon, Ed and Pastor Jeff set off for Massachusetts to pick up a new supply of bees. One of the hives didn't survive the winter. The new bees are doing well and keeping busy.

This week we will be busy getting ready for the Hardwick Spring Festival. Watch for the llamas in the parade and then down at Atkins Field by the Center for an Agricultural Economy tent! See you there!!

Weekend pictures

2009-05-09T15:56:00.000-07:00

We were busy today--moving the turkey poults to a new spot and preparing the birthing area for Mexia's upcoming cria. We finished cleaning up the old wood from the bunker silos to make way for the excavation contractor who will turn the spot into our picnic and play area. Then we went on to rebuild the pig pen--we reused some of the pressure treated lumber from the bunkers. The kids had friends over and Dan's friend George walked our George. We got caught out in the downpour this afternoon, but that was fun too. Lots of excitement going on here as we gear up for summer!

Spring Health Fair at Hardwick Elementary School

2009-05-07T16:09:00.000-07:00

Agape Hill Farm was invited to have a table at the elementary school's health fair today. What a great day!

The kids were enthusiastic and very interested in hearing about llamas and fiber. While from a health perspective we were there to promote trail walks and interactive farm visits, turning the crank for the drum carder stole the show!

So, in addition to having a fun day and meeting new people, we also got bags of fiber carded!

Springtime at Agape Hill Farm...

2009-04-27T09:44:00.000-07:00

Pictures of the week:

Toenail clipping and haircuts...

2009-04-24T18:37:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day today! We were so glad we got our errands done yesterday and could spend the day on the farm. I finished cutting all the llamas toenails--today was the boys turn! They did really well, but it is a pretty exhausting job! Fortunately Willie makes a great pillow!

It is supposed to be very hot this weekend, so we decided we'd better shear Summer. She's our newest llama and appears not to have been shorn last year at her previous home.She proved to be much jumpier than our other llamas, but in the end her haircut came out pretty well! She has extremely soft fiber and we discovered some beautiful coloring underneath all that long matted stuff! She seems much more comfortable and the boys were quite impressed (seriously--they couldn't stop looking at her--it was hysterical!) We all think she looks like a poodle!

Kristina gave Lily, her Angora rabbit a haircut too. Here's a picture of part-way through the haircut. This was Lily's first cut and K did a great job!

Everyone is getting ready for Spring!

Stuck in the mud and other tales of Spring...

2009-04-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy doing springtime work on the farm, there hasn't been much time for blogging. We've cleaned out the chicken coop, stained the picnic tables, raked the lawn and other great adventures. The big project has been cleaning up the old bunker silos in preparation for having the area excavated into our new picnic area. Sam and some of his friends have been working unbelievably hard moving the old tires out (which they are using to set up their own paintball course). We've been ripping down the old wooden sides too. It's a big job, but it's going to be such a great spot when it's done.

Today we were pulling out the temporary fencing from the gully pasture. We need to rearrange it for the llamas. Our friend, Connor, from Heartbeet was over helping. We were all having lots of fun and working hard.

Then, it happened...my boots sank down into the muck and water started pouring in. I got totally STUCK!! Connor started laughing which made me laugh and get stuck even worse! Danny took pictures and then went to get Ed to haul me out. I was afraid for a few minutes he was going to need the tractor! I was really stuck. Thought all our friends would enjoy seeing pictures of MY adventure!

Enjoy this awesome spring weather!!

Out in the sunshine...

2009-04-11T13:51:00.000-07:00

It was so beautiful out yesterday afternoon that we decided to take Macey and her baby, Oreo, out to enjoy the sunshine.
When the vet visited a couple of weeks ago he confirmed our suspicion that Oreo is blind in one eye. He has congenital cataracts and may also lose his sight in the other eye as well. We want him to start getting accustomed to moving about and finding his mother is new places. He had a great adventure exploring, jumping, running and playing. He's such a sweet little guy.

Today the boys went to pick up our "new" lawn tractor. With adding the picnic area to the mowing chores this year, we finally convinced Dad that his good ol' Wheelhorse should retire. We have been online shopping for quite awhile and feel that God provided this tractor just for us. It is the exact model we were looking for, plus a limited edition and for a great price! It is SO easy to drive and cuts beautifully. We're very thankful. It occurs to me we are starting a tractor-theme for celebrating holidays here. Hmmm....I wonder what I'll get for Mother's Day this year--LOL!!

Pictures of the week...

2009-03-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

Cookie and Kristina

New tables for the picnic area

Cookie at 2 weeks old

Pussywillows and blue sky

Happy Llama-versary!!!

2009-03-28T13:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked the one year mark having our llamas at Agape Hill Farm!! What a celebration it was! We were just about to leave for the day and stopped at the barn to pick up a few things. There was some commotion going on in the girls' pen. We looked and surprise!!--Macey was giving birth. She struggled a bit to get the shoulders out, so we were very glad to be there. We had planned to leave earlier, but had many interruptions. God's timing is so much better than ours! Macey gave birth to a very handsome baby boy named Oreo!

After we got mother and son all clean and dry and settled in the barn, Mom and Danny, resumed our trip to Middlebury. We were on our way to pick up another new llama addition--a beautiful femaled named Summer. We fell in love with her instantly and after a little convincing (and some grain) got her loaded into the mini-van. Summer laid down and rested quietly during the whole trip home--even for a stop at McDonalds! She is settling in nicely and is getting acquainted with everyone from her spot in a small pen set up next to the girls' larger pen. We'll move her in with them in a couple of days.

So, two new llamas--not a bad way to mark anniversary number one! We're up to 16!

Another new friend...

2009-03-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

It was a beautiful day on the farm today. Such a nice change from the colder weather earlier this week! Our friend, Brittany, from Heartbeet came for a visit and took Whoopie Pie for a nice long walk up the road. We even saw a flock of robins on the way home. Spring is finally on its way!

New Friends at the Farm

2009-03-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

We had a new visitor from Heartbeet Lifesharing here at the farm yesterday. Connor came for his first llama visit and made fast friends with Anakin. They are an awesome pair--both outgoing, happy and enthusiastic. We went for a great walk up the road and Connor also helped with several farm chores. His farm experience at Heartbeet really showed!

Kitty's baby has a name...Cookie! She is gaining weight steadily and full of life. Kitty is a terrific mom.

It's a girl!!

2009-03-15T17:25:00.000-07:00

Miss Kitty has FINALLY had her cria! She was born around 8 this morning and the whole family was able to be there to welcome the new little one. She weighed 29.5 lbs, is standing well and has been nursing frequently. We are praying all will continue to go well. Thank you to Pat for the new scale for the barn so we can keep a close watch on her weight. She's got great coloring and a name will be announced soon!

We did take pictures of the birth, if anyone would like to see them--just email.

Saturday's Adventures

2009-03-15T17:10:00.000-07:00

It was SO nice to have warm weather this weekend. Every llama has been for a walk and it has been wonderful! Some llamas got toenail trims after their nails softened up walking in wet grass and snow.

Danny tried on Anakin's new halter and was presently surprised at how quickly Anakin learned to walk with a training pack. They took Mom and Ande on a walk carrying apples in the pack for a snack at the top of the hill. We also learned that Ande has a liking for apple cores!

Sugarin' Time...

2009-03-07T12:17:00.002-08:00

We're very excited to be tapping a few maple trees this year on the property. We'll be hauling the sap off to Ed's brother's sugar house for boiling. We used to sugar back in Connecticut (go figure!) and have really missed it.

Sunny is resting after losing her cria and we are sharing her sadness. Miss Kitty and Macey are both due any time. After this last disappointment we'll be watching them extra closely!

What's new at Agape Hill...

2009-03-05T07:46:00.000-08:00

We're all ready for the weather to warm up...tired of frozen waterers and an icy barnyard, but while we are waiting for spring there are still things happening at the farm.

The interactive farm program has begun on a limited basis in conjunction with Nancy's internship at Heartbeet lifesharing. We are enjoying Sean's weekly visits and appreciating his enthusiasm and flexibility as we overcome weather obstacles. He and Mexia are an awesome team and we can't wait to be able to do more as the weather warms up!

We've been patiently (ok, not patiently) waiting for Miss Kitty to have a cria, but went to the barn Tuesday morning to discover that Sunny had beaten her to it! Not sure why they manage to pick the coldest days to give birth, but Sunny had a cute little girl cria. We're still deciding on a name, but mother and baby are doing fine! They are in the horse barn to keep warm and we've put Kitty along in there for company. We THINK we'll have more news soon and Macey is due next week, so keep watching!A sad ending to this story. The little cria died at 3 days old. She was nursing and seemed fine, but went downhill so fast Friday afternoon there was nothing we could do. She died well loved in Nancy's arms with lots of tears shed. This is the hard side of farming--and part of the life lessons that living on a farm brings to us.

The Farmall-H Arrives!

2009-02-14T15:10:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine’s Day!

My sweetheart gave me a beautiful red Farmall-H tractor.OK, so that is a bit unconventional, but I couldn’t be happier!

This tractor is going to be perfect for the picnic and play area on our interactive farm.

It has the greatest bouncy spring seat—so fun!

There’s plenty of engine work and cosmetics to attend to before spring, but we’ll be ready.

This tractor will join Eddie’s Ford 8N in the play area. We’ll post more pictures as we go through the restoring process.

Colby's Birthday Party

2009-02-07T12:50:00.000-08:00

Whoopie Pie had his first birthday party adventure today! He was invited to Colby's 6th birthday party.

The party began with a short lesson about llamas.

After the kids had learned the proper way to meet a llama,
Whoopie came into the house for a visit.

Here's Hunter getting a llama kiss!

Then it was off for a walk around the neighborhood. Colby and his friends each took a turn walking Whoopie.

Colby & Whoopie

Ethan, a llama walking pro, takes a turn!

Isaiah seems to like me MUCH better
when I have a llama! Maybe I should
bring Whoopie to church on Sunday!

Derek is another great llama walker!

We even paid a visit to Colby's grandparents!

Whoopie Pie did the most interesting thing! After walking quietly for at least 20 minutes, he began humming frantically. We quickly realized he was upset because some of the boys had run ahead to play on the snowbanks. He definitely considered it his responsibility to keep an eye on the kids and settled right back down as soon as they came back near him.
Good job, Whoopie!

Then it was time to say goodbye and load back up into the van. The kids finished the party making felted bouncing balls and Whoopie was ready to head home to his friends. On the way we took advantage of a $5 special at the car wash. Whoopie LOVED the carwash and followed the spray around the car! He is most definitely a public relations llama!

Whoopie at the Car Wash

Two Young Visitors to the Farm

2009-02-02T19:01:00.000-08:00

We had some fun young visitors today. Nate and Gabe came with their friend, Pati, to check out the llamas.
These young gentlemen knew all about how to meet animal friends and the llamas rewarded them with lots of attention and llama kisses. They ended their visit by taking Mexia for a walk around the yard. We were all happy to enjoy the warmer weather!

Adventures at Agape Hill Farm

Construction has begun.

Let the construction begin!!

Winter Update for the Kelly House Project

Kelly's Story

May Mayhem

Spring Adventures

**NEW*** Fiber Group

Spring Afterschool Workshop Schedule

Beat the Winter Blues Fiber Workshop

Announcing Winter After School Workshops

Hardwick Area Cub Scouts Help on the Trail

Llama walking in the Fall

A Fall Weekend at the Farm

What next?

Vacation at home on the farm...

Llama Demonstration

Farm Tour

Fiber Workshop...

Llama Workshop

Blueberries!!!

What's new at Agape Hill...

Llamas at the Library!!

Pat's Family Comes to Visit...

Global Campus Visit

Trail Building Day

All things work together for good...

Heartbeet Family Weekend

What's happening at the farm this week...

Trooper's First Haircut

Happy Birthday, Alexis!

2009 East Hardwick Children's Parade

Kindergarten Field Trip!!

Favorite Field Trip Pictures

Anakin's Shearing

Welcome home Thonolan & Jondalar!

We'd like to hear from you...

Selah...pause and reflect.

Forestry Games and New Additions...

Weekend pictures

Spring Health Fair at Hardwick Elementary School

Springtime at Agape Hill Farm...

Toenail clipping and haircuts...

Stuck in the mud and other tales of Spring...

Out in the sunshine...

Pictures of the week...

Happy Llama-versary!!!

Another new friend...

New Friends at the Farm

It's a girl!!

Saturday's Adventures

Sugarin' Time...

What's new at Agape Hill...

The Farmall-H Arrives!

Colby's Birthday Party

Two Young Visitors to the Farm

NEW* Fiber Group