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The Tip is 'Ask Before You Buy' I went to a department store for a pair of dress shoes recently. The clerk helped me with three different pairs that I tried on. 'The Big Secret' was on the forefront of my mind so I asked, "Are these shoes imports?" The salesman responded that they were in fact imported. "Do you have any Made In America shoes like these?" I asked. To my surprise he said, "We have a whole line of Made In USA shoes." I was able to purchase the same color and style with the Made In USA label. These Made in America shoes were less expensive, came with a better warranty and were more comfortable. It's amazing how often this simple Made in US question yields unexpected and often times pleasant results. I now ask this question regularly, whereas before I would not have thought to ask for a Made in America alternative. More often than not, I can find a Made in America product of higher quality and at the same, or slightly higher price. Asking the question is so simple and can make a positive impact, in both the short and long term. Try it sometime. If you are like me, you may be surprised with how many Made in US products are out there. You will love it when you realize you are making a difference that benefits many. With your help America will be ours again and that is a good thing. Buying Tip Continued - Read more on Made in America Products by Nordt Family Farm Welcome to our family farm. We raise Merino wool sheep which produce fine fleece in white, tan, chocolate brown, silver gray, and black. I hand dye our wool using natural plant dyes and I hand weave wool blankets using our wool. My love for weaving started in college but I've always had a knack for making things with my hands. At Virginia Commonwealth University I majored in Fashion Design. About midway through my studies I felt a bit disillusioned with clothing trends and the disposable nature of fashion. So I began adding in some classes from the Crafts Department and had a real epiphany when I first saw the weaving studio. I took every weaving class I could, while following through with my design degree. I earned a minor in Crafts and began envisioning my future as a weaver, living on a farm, raising kids and sheep. So now I'm a weaver, living on a farm, raising kids and sheep. Together with my incredible husband, we manage an old house and a 400 acre farm on the banks of the James River in Charles City County, Virginia. I feel so fortunate to have been able to live my dream, to stay at home with my kids, and to practice the craft that I love to my core. And thanks to Etsy, I have had such amazing support both locally and worldwide and I am so grateful. Dianne Nordt |
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