We went to SMW to teach a class in color theory and a class in dyeing protein fibers for the staff and volunteers of the White Violet Center for Eco-Justice. They have a wonderful alpaca breeding and fiber program.
We stayed in their straw bale retreat house, which was not far from where they keep their alpaca boys.
The boys are out off the main roads of campus, so they don't get as much company as the girls do. They loved K2.
White Violet believes in all kinds of sustainable living. They grow a lot of organic food for the SMW kitchens and to sell at the local farmers' markets.
They have a lovely old greenshouse. Alas, it will be with us for not much longer since the heating system is kaput. They'll be getting a new one soon.
This is where K2 found that fabulous rose.
and she made friends with the greenhouse cat, Scruffy.
Behind the greenhouse is a lovely little contemplative garden with a fish pond, lights and a bench. It's cool and green and shady.