Welcome to 2023 Travel Diaries

Follow along with Rick, Elara, and friends as they travel in 2023 to film content, conduct interviews, and more for the sustainable world! 2023 is the Backyard Green Films Year of Adventure - is it yours?

Rick Bowman Rick Bowman

A Tale of Wool and Lavender: Our Enchanting Visit to Flying Fibers

Nestled in the serene landscapes of York, Pennsylvania, lies a place where the essence of nature and the heartwarming connection between humans and animals come together in a harmonious symphony. Flying Fibers, a picturesque haven of sheep and lavender, is a testament to sustainable farming practices and the spirit of community. Join us as we recount our unforgettable journey to this idyllic retreat, where we not only witnessed the beauty of coexistence but also adopted Jane, an adorable Shetland sheep, into our fold.


Welcoming Tranquility: A Glimpse of Flying Fibers

As we drove through the meandering country roads, the scent of lavender in the air beckoned us towards Flying Fibers. A rolling field and an impressive hillside of lavender stretched before us, where sheep grazed leisurely beside vibrant lavender bushes. The farm's rustic charm blended seamlessly with the serene ambiance, making it a haven for both nature enthusiasts and animal lovers alike.


Unveiling the Story: Sustainable Smallholding at its Finest

Our hosts, Jeri Robinson-Lawrence and Irina Lawrence Mathias, welcomed us with a warm smile and a genuine passion for sustainable farming. Jeri shared how Flying Fibers was born out of a dream to weave together two seemingly distinct elements: sheep and lavender. "Our goal is to create a haven where the natural world thrives, and humans can learn from and enjoy its beauty, while also preserving rare breed sheep" Jeri expressed.



As we strolled through the fragrant lavender rows, Jeri spoke about their holistic approach to farming on their small plot. The sheep's gentle grazing not only nurtured the land but also provided natural fertilizer for the earth. In return, the lavender's aromatic oils acted as a calming influence on the sheep, and the family that tended this land. This symbiotic relationship showcased the interconnectedness of all life on the farm.



A Fuzzy Connection: Adopting Jane the Shetland Sheep

Amidst the tranquil surroundings, we had the joyous opportunity to meet Jane, an adorable Shetland sheep with a personality as charming as her fleece. Her inquisitive eyes and gentle demeanor captured our hearts instantly.

It didn't take long for us to realize that Jane was meant to be a part of our lives. The decision to sponsor her was met with unanimous agreement, and Jane officially became a beloved member of our Backyard Green Films family. Her presence symbolized the bond we forged with Flying Fibers – a connection to sustainable farming, nature's beauty, and the enduring spirit of community.


A Heartfelt Journey's End

As we prepared to leave the farm, Jane safely tucked away amongst the flock under the caring gaze of her shepherdesses, we couldn't help but reflect on the profound experiences we had gathered. Flying Fibers had taught us the value of balance, the magic of coexistence, and the significance of nurturing both the land and its inhabitants.

Choosing Jane’s home was more than a mere sponsorship of a sheep; it was a commitment to honoring the principles of sustainability and cherishing the interconnectedness of all living beings. The memory of our visit to Flying Fibers and the joy of “adopting” Jane would forever remind us of the beauty of nature's tapestry and the endless lessons it has to offer.

Threads of Connection, Woven Forever

Our journey to Flying Fibers had been nothing short of enchanting. Amidst lavender fields and sheep, we discovered a sanctuary where humans and nature coexist in perfect harmony. The story of Jane, the Shetland sheep, became entwined with our own, reminding us that the bonds we forge with the natural world can be some of the most enduring and meaningful.

As we drove away from the farm, we carried with us the lessons of sustainable farming, the fragrance of lavender, and the warmth of a newfound friendship. Flying Fibers had gifted us not just with a precious sheep but with a wealth of experiences that would forever be etched in our hearts.

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Rick Bowman Rick Bowman

To Devon to Devon to see cattle?

Rick has arrived in Devon! Ready to film and take in the sights, this filmmaker and rare breed livestock advocate is chomping at the bit for some fabulous content! Luckily, with some previous research and great connections, he was able to see this beautiful herd of Ruby Red Devons in Crediton, Devon. Afterward, Rick took a jaunt to Exeter Bay to take in the sights and review footage he had shot. Backyard Green Films is incredibly honored to be a part of this momentous anniversary of such a rare breed of cattle. We hope that between Rick’s journey abroad and watching the content produced about this breed, you’ll help celebrate them just as we do!

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Rick Bowman Rick Bowman

To Plymouth

Over the hills and through the woods - except this journey starts in an airport in California and truly begins in the rolling hills of the South United Kingdom.

Rick and associates are across the ocean currently! They are traveling from Plymouth to Plymouth as part of the 300th anniversary of the Milking Devons. The American Milking Devon Association is spearheading this fantastic journey where Rick will get to go over and interview members of the UK Milking Devon community, and some other must-see places in the South.

Arriving safely in England, Rick and friends were greeted with truly English views - pastures, cottages, and SHEEP!

Don’t fret - this trip is not about sheep, albeit there is quite a few in Southern England. This trip is all about finding the best Milking Devons and their breeders to commemorate the 300th anniversary of these magnificent cattle.

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