Monday May 19th - today Andy the shearer came. We had locked the sheep into their house the night before and it was a good thing we did because it rained quite hard and the sheep must not be wet when they are sheared.

This morning was fair and windy and a good day for the job. One by one Randy and Andy caught the sheep while Rebecca held the door. Andy is a great shearer, relaxed and skillful, and we always learn something new about sheep and their care while he is here. The wool quality is excellent, very fine with a medium crimp, probably the nicest fleeces the farm has produced to date. It will be soft and fun to spin and to wear. Meanwhile the sheep are pleased and a little jumpy with the unaccustomed touch of the wind on their skin. Thank you Andy!