Meet Shari Gifford who, with her daughter Virginia, raises Shetland sheep in Stockton, NJ. Shari is a retired professor and a talented spinner, knitter, and sewist. Virginia is a professional artist and costumer, which results in an incredible hand sewn historical reënactment wardrobe! You can read more about their textile crafts and art at https://hardscrabblehandcrafts.com.

What is the name of your farm? Can you tell us about the name?
Hardscrabble Farm is a bit of a misnomer. But we are big fans of Ulysses S. and Julia Dent Grant. After they were married their first home was a scraggly little farm that they named Hardscrabble.

What animals have you raised in your life, and what animals are you raising now?
Shari raised Thoroughbred horses and Virginia raised gerbils. Now we raise Shetland Sheep and chickens.

What does a typical day caring for your animals look like for you?
As we leave the house, we have to avoid being run over by dogs racing for the tetherball. Once out of the yard we are greeted by two of our wethers who have the run of the barnyard at night. After a little bucking and running they go into their paddock. Then Ivy, one of our barn cats comes running and throws herself on the ground to be pet. Over at the chicken run, the chickens are all pressed against the wire begging to be let out. Out by the sheep shed, the sheep are lined up at their feed tubs waiting to be fed. There’s no better way to greet the day than seeing this every morning.

What products does your farm produce?
We sell lambs, adult sheep, whole fleeces, combed roving, knitted lace shawls and knitted bags. And eggs. Available items are listed on the website.

Do you have any new projects on the farm, or new products that you’d like to share?
Our latest project is the restoration of the 18th century cider house. You can check it out on the website blog, Thoughts from the Porch.

What experiences from your life–growing up, educational, or professional–have you been able to draw from to guide your life on the farm?
Our professional lives were no help whatsoever. But we both grew up on small farms where we experienced the wonder of having animals for friends. It is so rewarding to gain their trust, to be forgiven for our foolishness and to be kept in stitches by their antics.

What has been one of the biggest surprises about raising animals?
Birth. Nothing about farming is as awe-inspiring, as terrifying or as gratifying as watching the mother-to-be struggling with such determination that you are sure she will die any moment and then see that slimy thing turn into a soggy lamb that actually breathes, while mom, who was surely near death, starts licking everything in sight. Once she finds the lamb there is much gurgling and cooing. Then the suspense starts. Will the lamb ever get those legs sorted out? Will it ever find a teat? Is it getting any colostrum? Then, plop. There’s another slimy thing. How will she manage two?! Then, like magic, those two little lambs are running around the yard, kicking up their heels and head butting mom.

What do you wish you’d known before you started?
I wish I had a degree in veterinary medicine.

What are 3 things you’d like new farmers to know about raising animals?
The eye of the farmer fattens the calf. Spend time with your animals to know them and be able to spot problems early. Check their feet often. No matter how many times you’ve heard it, sheep need air.

What are your goals for the farm?
Health and happiness.