Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in town?
We moved from Central Maryland to Bedminster less than 4 years ago.
Child(ren) and Age(s)?
I have an 18-year old daughter and a 15-year old son.
One thing people would be surprised to know about you…
I’m terrible at sewing! Like, I can barely sew a button.
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
This is a tough one! But I have to say that the company of other moms was so important when my kids were younger. My sister-in-law’s children are a few years older than mine, and her calm guidance and wisdom helped me get through the toughest parenting conflicts. Sometimes, you just need that person who’s been through it all herself to tell you that struggles are normal, and that you’ll all make it out okay in the end.
Favorite things to do with your kids?
My daughter is a crafting whiz, so we love to spend time together making things. I’m always begging her to make hand-lettered signs for me, or to edit my photos. My son and I enjoy quirky films, and building computers. We’re still exploring the area and we’re always excited to find a new-to-us dim sum or pho restaurant.
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
Middle Brook Fiberworks is my fiber arts business. I raise a multi-colored flock of Shetland sheep and sell small-batch, home-grown yarn and fiber. I also teach classes in spinning, weaving, and dyeing at fiber festivals and yarn shops across the country, and at my teaching studio on the farm. I exhibit my freeform tapestry weavings at local galleries and museums. I’m passionate about supporting local fiber farms and mills, and am a Trustee of the Garden State Sheep Breeders Association.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
I’m thrilled to live in a community of so many talented artists. When I had my Farm Tour/Open Studio last year, I invited 3 of my neighbors to display their art in the barn. For this year’s event, I’ll be inviting even more of my friendly neighborhood artists. The fact that there are several other small fiber farms in the area is a huge help, because I know that there is always someone who I can call. I get together with a couple of other shepherds at shearing time, and it’s always a fun time to share stories about our sheep and lambing.
To learn more about Anne or to visit Middle Brook Fiberworks, follow her on social media or check out her website for information on classes and tours!
