Embracing the Chill: Outdoor Fall Projects and Goat Milk Soap Making in Vermont

As autumn unfolds across Vermont, the landscape transforms with brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The crisp air and shorter days signal a change, urging us to wrap up outdoor projects before winter's frosty grasp sets in. This magical time, often called "stick season," invites reflection on what can be achieved before the ground becomes a frozen canvas. It's also the perfect opportunity to immerse ourselves in the delightful craft of goat milk soap making. With the usual hustle of barn stays winding down, we have more time to plan and prepare for the frosty months ahead. Let’s dive into the enchanting fall in Vermont, the urgency of our outdoor tasks, and the joy of crafting goat milk soap.

The Beauty of Fall in Vermont

Vermont in autumn is a sight to behold. Each year, over 3 million visitors flock to the region to experience the vibrant fall foliage, which peaks around mid-October. The streets are alive with families appreciating the natural spectacle, with the crisp scent of leaves and the crunch of fallen foliage underfoot.

This seasonal change isn't just beautiful; it serves as a signal for important tasks that must be attended to before winter arrives. Now is the time to assess outdoor projects needing completion. Consider planting bulbs that will bloom into spring flowers, winterizing your garden, and preparing barns and sheds to withstand colder temperatures. For example, ensuring your vegetable garden is protected can lead to a healthier yield in the upcoming spring.

What Can Be Done After Everything is Frozen?

Once the ground becomes solidly frozen, outdoor tasks shift to indoor activities. This time of year can be a chance to focus on various projects that keep you busy and engaged. Here are a few suggestions:

• Tool Organization: Sort and clean your gardening tools to ensure they are ready for next season. Including remembering to take the battery out of the zero-turn mower.

• New Hobbies: Consider starting a new creative pursuit, such as woodcarving, watercolor or cordage making, which can be both fulfilling and productive.

  
  

This period is also an excellent time for crafts like goat milk soap making, a beloved Vermont tradition that aligns beautifully with the season.

The Art of Goat Milk Soap Making

As the chill sets in, crafting goat milk soap becomes a favorite pastime. Not only does this creative outlet yield nourishing bars of soap, but it’s also a rewarding experience. Goat milk soap is renowned for its moisturizing properties, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.

The soap-making process involves blending lye with goat milk and various oils. Allowing the soap to cure for at least four weeks ensures the bars are gentle on the skin. Imagine the satisfaction of creating a unique bar of soap infused with essential oils and herbs. It’s a delightful way to embrace the season, especially as the temperature drops.

If you have been hesitant about starting your soap making journey, reach out to us for a private soap making class. We have done several practice classes and are just working out the details to make the classes more available. Once you are comfortable with the process you can gather your supplies and find a cozy workspace at home. The scent of the soap, combined with the joy of crafting, becomes a comforting ritual that carries you through the autumn chill.