Here we are at the Birch Lane Mission in the Arboretum. They are learning about the early California missions. Each mission was able to support itself with many activities. Mayordomos are student teachers. As the early morning bell rings, the neophytes are hurried along to make a cup of hot chocolate to give them the strength to complete their tasks for the rest of the morning.
Hot chocolate hits the spot as the morning begins.
The ringing of the bell reminds us all to get down to the hard, rigorous work of carding raw wool from a recently shorn sheep. This is serious work and needs much attention to be properly completed. Carding the wool is fun and important. It takes cooperation and muscles. Following the carding comes the spinning of the wool - a task that only the most coordinated of neophytes would be considered suitable to attempt.