Don't Pull The Wool Over My Eyes

Did you know wool can be obtained from many types of animals?

• Angora wool- Rabbit

• Cashmere wool- Cashmere Goat

• Chiengora wool-Dog

• Llama wool-Llama

• Lopi- Icelandic Sheep

• Mohair- Angora Goat

• Pashmina-A distinct type of goat

• Shahtoosh- Tibetan antelope

• Tibetan fur- Tibetan Lamb

• Alpaca wool- Alpaca

Angora Rabbit

Icelandic Sheep

Tibetan Lamb

Wool is a textile?

This means the fur (wool) will be mixed with another natural or artificial fiber (yarn or thread). When the yarn or thread mixes with wool, flax, cotton, or hemp it will then provide the needed length to produce a product that can be woven, knitted, crochet, knotted or felted. There are many products made from wool such as; baskets, towels, backpacks, and many other useful articles we depend on every day.

Why is wool used?

• It has a lower rate of heat release compared to other materials

• It can absorb up to 35% of its own weight in liquid and has the ability to dry quickly 

• No microbial attraction because it carries no charge 

• Eco friendly

• Durable

• Merino wool is itch-free

Why Should I use Wool For Camping?

If you are a 3 season camper you know nights can get pretty cold. I use a wool blanket inside as another barrier to keep me warm, but you can use it under or on top of your sleeping bag too, it's all about making you comfortable, right?

I always wear some sort of merino wool base layer when I am out exploring the wilderness. I feel it is the best, it may cost more than cotton, but worth every cent. I have had my Merino gear for years; hats, scarves,and mittens. All of my gear still looks great and holding up so well, I might have to purchase more just for a change of color. I believe if you are going to enjoy the outdoors for years to come then you should invest in the best gear and give your body what it deserves; Merino wool.

Merino Sheep

Graham State Park, MO

When we arrived at our campsite, our thought was "rustic", but nice. We were greeted by two park staff members that were cleaning up downed trees. At first, we were not sure if this spot was going to fit our truck and trailer, but in the end with a little assistance from the staff, my husband backed the trailer in perfectly.

When my husband leveled out the trailer there was about a 2-foot difference from the ground to the 1st step of our camper and as I am only 5'2" and we were located on a down slope We needed to make a trip to Walmart for a step stool. This solved the problem and I felt more comfortable getting in and out of our camper.

The highlight of this park is the “Cave “, however you can only walk in a little way before you are greeted by a fence that will only allow you a minimal view of what the archeologists excavated years back. There are four informational boards stating how the cave came to be and what it was used for through the ages.

Inside of the fenced in area

Outside the "Cave"

After seeing the Cave, we took a trail that led us past a small waterfall and up around paths covered in sandstone. There are many other great walking trails at this park, and they are color-coded for beginner, moderate and advanced hikers. My husband and I did not walk the advanced route. The beginner and moderate trails were nicely maintained even though there were some remaining downed trees from the previous month's storm. There were a couple of watering holes for our pups, Molly and Ben.

This was a very easy trail to walk right after viewing the "Cave"

There is a playground for children and picnic tables nearby. This campground is great for a stopover or for a day trip with the family. As far as other activities go, I do not think there is much to offer to last more than a couple of days.

On our second day, we took a drive to the Apple Wagon Antique Mall. They are known as a Fiesta Ware Factory Outlet, but also sell seasonal decor, holiday items, outdoor metal art, and other handmade merchandise. The shop is extremely clean and the staff very friendly.

Overall our time spent at this park was enjoyable.