Debunking Myths, Serious Honey Throat Coat, & Black Friday Sneak Peek!
November 19, 2025
Hello Friend,
The Possum Fox family has been hard at work preparing for the holidays. We know just how quickly they come and go, and we want to make every effort to ensure our shoppers have a good selection of products to choose from. Our online store is stocked and waiting for you during our first-ever Black Friday sale starting Friday, November 28. Get in on our special 3-day buy-one-get-one-free. Click here for a sneak peek!
On the home front, our hearts are full of gratitude for our little backyard family, for good health and food on the table. For joy and laughter, and even the times that bring a tear or two. It’s all a part of this glorious life we’re living on this beautiful planet.
We pray that your holidays be blessed beyond measure, and that joy and peace fill your minds and hearts with a spirit of gratefulness.
There is a calmness to a life lived in gratitude, a quiet joy
The Truth About Tallow
Debunking the Myths
What do you think of when you first hear the word tallow? For most people, visions of greasy skin and a shiny face come to mind. The truth is, tallow is far from greasy when used correctly. Tallow’s unique composition makes it one of the most skin-friendly moisturizers available. The problem is, most people don’t understand how tallow-based skincare products really work.
Let’s debunk a few myths and discover just how important tallow skincare can be to your beauty regimen.
Myth #1- Tallow is only for dry, flaky skin
The fact is, tallow is highly beneficial for all skin types. Let’s take a look:
Dry skin - Tallow replenishes the skin’s natural barrier, which supports sebum by locking in moisture and preventing further dehydration.
Oily skin - Tallow mimics sebum and can balance overactive oil production, reducing the likelihood of clogged pores and breakouts.
Sensitive skin - Tallow is soothing and gentle, free of synthetic chemicals and artificial fragrances that cause irritation and redness.
Myth #2 - Tallow is just greasy animal fat
When sourced and formulated correctly, grass-fed tallow, which we use exclusively in our products, has a smooth and creamy consistency that feels luxurious on the skin, not greasy at all. Our tallow is carefully rendered and purified to a clean, white appearance.
Myth #3 - Tallow will clog my pores
Our grass-fed tallow is non-comedogenic and won’t clog your pores. It’s even suitable for oily and acne-prone skin types. Tallow’s natural fatty acids and vitamins, including CLA, conjugated linoleic acid, act as anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory agents on the skin. This soothes the skin and helps prevent acne or breakouts.
Myth #4 - Tallow will leave a shiny residue
Tallow is deeply nourishing to the skin. It mimics our naturally occurring sebum by regulating oil production, so your skin looks hydrated, not shiny. It’s important to use tallow sparingly as a little bit goes a long way. Within minutes of applying a small amount of tallow to the skin, it begins to assimilate quickly, feeding our systems with a powerhouse of nutrients.
In conclusion, when sourced and formulated correctly, grass-fed tallow is a lightweight, deeply nourishing substance that delivers hydration, balance, and protection to your skin.
Tallow is a natural source you can trust for problematic skin types or for a non-toxic skin care routine that offers a clean and nourishing solution.
Explore our grass-fed tallow skincare that is thoughtfully crafted and experience some myth-busting solutions for yourself.
The First Thanksgiving and Tallow
Imagine that very first Thanksgiving at Plymouth Colony, Massachusetts, in the year 1621. For some reason, I shiver when I think of it. Supposedly, it took place in the fall as a three-day feast. I envision a cold east wind blowing off the Atlantic Ocean, swirling around a big outdoor table laden with bowls of pompion (cooked pumpkin), corn, bread, and various meats, including venison, rabbit, fish, wild turkeys, and quail.
I see the pilgrim wives huddled together, wrapped in shawls over their floor-length dresses, trying to stay warm. The men are tending the fire and sipping on grog. Nearby is a group of Wampanoag people, nonchalantly oblivious to the weather.
It would have been fascinating to see the dishes made and brought by the Wampanoag and the pilgrims. It must have been a real combination of tastes and customs.
Animal fats were a common staple for cooking and skincare among early American colonists, and had been used for centuries prior. Tallow was a fundamental ingredient for cooking, making candles, and creating soaps and medicinal ointments to treat chapped or burned skin. It was used to hydrate and nourish the skin.
Pioneer women passed down the secrets of tallow to future generations. Tallow was regarded as a valuable skincare balm, a medicinal ointment, and a basic skin protector.
Get Armed and Ready for Winter Maladies
Honey-Garlic Cough Syrup
This is so incredibly easy to make!
This honey-garlic cough remedy is an effective homemade syrup that uses the natural, nutritional properties of raw honey and garlic. It soothes sore throats and can relieve cough symptoms.
This recipe is fermented and ready in 2-4 weeks.
Place peeled whole garlic cloves in a clean glass jar and cover with raw organic honey, making sure all cloves are submerged.
Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 3 to 4 weeks.
During the fermentation process, gases will build up, so it’s important to “burp” the jar by opening the lid slightly once a day for the first week or two.
This fermented mixture can last for several months or up to a year when stored properly in a cool, dark place.
I recommend that adults take anywhere from 1 tsp to 1 tbsp as needed to relieve a cough or soothe a sore throat.
For children over 1 year of age, a smaller dose such as 1/2 or 1 tsp is recommended.
*Remember to never give honey to a child under the age of one.
Black Friday Sale!!!
Put this one on your calendar, folks, because this sale is going to blow your socks off!! All of our most popular products and gift sets will be BUY 1 GET 1 FREE for the ENTIRE BLACK FRIDAY HOLIDAY WEEKEND! You heard that right. Get your Christmas shopping done for half the price!
Keep an eye out for a shopping page on our website, coming soon.
This is a sale you won’t want to miss. Give the gift of 100% all-natural skincare at half the price!
Have a cozy week and stay toasty warm! Remember to count your blessings….
Tallow Trouble, Veterans Day, Olive Oil Magic, & Black Friday!
POSSUM FOX BACKYARD GOODS
November 11, 2025
Dear Friend,
It goes without saying that the worst things happen at nighttime. For some of us, it’s dreams or nightmares, for others, the harsh reality of something forgotten that comes to our consciousness, causing us to sit bolt upright in our beds with dread. So was my experience in the wee hours of the morning. I threw off the covers, shoved my feet into slippers, and made my way like a drunk to the kitchen to witness what I feared I would see. And sure enough, there it was.
White billows of tallow had boiled over from the crock pot on the counter and streamed downward to form lumpish swirls all over my kitchen floor. I was horrified! I quickly switched the setting from low to warm, squinting to read the tiny labels. I lifted the lid and saw most of it had boiled out.
Oh, the woes of human error! I wasn’t looking forward to calling my daughter, Rose, our alchemist. Thankfully, she understood the trials and tribulations of tallow making.
Today I am working busily at home, rendering two crocks of new tallow. And you better bet your britches I’m watching it closely as I change the cat box, walk the dog, work in the yard, clean off the deck, clean the house, and catch up on my writing. Wait a minute, I need to set the timer!
Happy Veterans Day!
Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our country with courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Because of your service, we have the freedom to dream, to build, and to grow — including running a small business like ours and serving the community we love.
At Possum Fox Backyard Goods, we’re deeply grateful for the generations of veterans who have protected the ideals that make this nation strong. Your commitment allows us to do what we do every day — gather, create, and celebrate the simple joys of home and backyard life in a free country.
From our family to yours, thank you for your service and your sacrifice.
— The Possum Fox Backyard Goods Team
Black Friday Sale!!!
Put this one on your calendar, folks, because this sale is going to blow your socks off!! All of our most popular products and gift sets will be BUY 1 GET 1 FREE for the ENTIRE BLACK FRIDAY HOLIDAY WEEKEND! You heard that right. Get your Christmas shopping done for half the price!
Keep an eye out for a shopping page on our website, coming soon.
This is a sale you won’t want to miss. Give the gift of 100% all-natural skincare at half the price!
Olive oil, nature's potent elixir…
With the onset of winter comes cold, crisp air that noticeably dehydrates the skin. Before I started using tallow skincare, I noticed winter’s drying effects on my lips and face, as well as my arms and legs. My skin pulled together, revealing more lines and wrinkles, and my legs felt dry and itchy. To combat winter wrinkles, I turned to tallow with organic extra virgin olive oil, which is my favorite line of defense.
Since I visited the Durant Olive Mill in Oregon and, most recently, the Texas Hill Country Olive Company, I’ve been reminded of the outstanding benefits of organic extra virgin olive oil as a moisturizer that nourishes and protects the skin. All of this is due to its antioxidants, vitamin A and E, and healthy fats that hydrate, improve signs of aging and wrinkles, and help soothe skin disorders, including sunburn, eczema, and acne. In addition, it supports skin cell regeneration and repair, helping heal damaged areas. Olive oil deeply feeds the body as both food and beauty.
It wasn’t until I spent some time in Italy that I fully realized the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil. People lived noticeably longer, healthier lives. I learned the beauty secrets of the ancient Mediterranean peoples, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians.
Greeks and Romans were known to bathe in olive oil lather, using a strigil, a small, handheld, curved blade, to scrape it off. Some scented the olive oil with perfume before bathing.
Cleopatra, while bathing, was known for using olive oil on her skin and hair. The Egyptians, in particular, placed a high value on beauty, especially silky smooth skin.
Whether drizzling our salads and meals with extra virgin olive oil or applying it topically, our bodies receive powerful nutritional benefits inside as well as the same antioxidant and hydration benefits when applied on the outside.
My favorite go-to olive oil hydration therapy is Winter Balm, our tallow moisturizer for winter hibernation. What I love about this moisturizer is its ability to keep my skin hydrated and supple, leaving it soft and smooth for a good time. As a body cream, I use it on my face daily, as well as my arms, legs, and anywhere I feel dryness. The moisturizing effect is instant and refreshing.
Winter is a joyful time of the year with holiday festivities and merrymaking. Remember to feed your body the health benefits it needs to make this season the most wonderful time of the year
"Beautiful skin requires commitment, not a miracle."
Savory Chicken Marbella
Ingredients:
6 bone-in chicken thighs
1/2 cup Lemon Infused Olive Oil
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1 cup prunes, chopped and pitted
1/2 cup green olives
1/4 cup capers
5 bay leaves
1 head of garlic
1/4 cup oregano
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup white wine
1/4 cup flat-leafed parsley, chopped
salt and pepper to taste
Create a brine mixture by combining lemon-infused olive oil (can use a good EVOO with grated lemon zest added), vinegar, prunes, olives, capers, bay leaves, garlic, oregano, and salt & pepper.
Add chicken to the brine mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Place chicken in a single layer in a glass baking dish.
Carefully spoon the brine all around the chicken, careful not to cover the chicken.
Add white wine, and sprinkle each chicken thigh with brown sugar.
Bake for 35-45 minutes, until there’s an internal temp of 165 degrees.
Transfer to a serving platter and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
PS…if you prefer to leave the brown sugar out, you can do so, and it will be a bit more savory.
Have a cozy week and stay toasty warm. Enjoy this ‘falling into winter’ photo…
The Possum Fox Family
Tallow Vs. Plant Oil, A Big World, and Rosemary Smashed Potatoes
Hello Friend,
I just returned from a quick trip to Austin, Texas. My son and his wife invited me to explore the area with them, and I honestly said yes, emphatically, before they were done asking. I love to travel! For me, it’s the ultimate adventure. Maybe I’ve had a little too much time living in the same old routine, which has grown comfortable to me. That in itself can be dangerous. It wasn’t until I had spent some time in Texas doing some sightseeing and visiting wineries, olive oil farms, and barbeques that I realized how much I had missed this. To spend a little time in a different realm, area, or part of the globe is a recipe for rejuvenation. I felt alive and inspired.
After I returned home, I thought of how easy it is to settle in and live in the same rhythm of life. But this brief reminder that there is so much more out there to see in the big, wide world, so many people to meet, and places to visit was an awakening.
I’ve come home to see my surroundings with new eyes. The ordinary has taken on an extraordinary dimension. I’ve got a spring in my step, just a little one, and a bit of a different perspective on everything around me. Does travel do that to us? Will we take that road of discovery only to find ourselves back in our own safe homes and environments, with a bit of a different perspective?
“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.” Marcel Proust
Cruising down the San Antonio River through the Riverwalk district of San Antonio
Beef Tallow Verses Plant-Based Oils
When it comes to nourishing and protecting our skin, we all want the very best. What will give us that smooth, hydrated appearance combined with a healthy glow? Will we reap the benefits of nutrients that assimilate deeply into our skin and beyond? Ingredients truly matter, and our understanding of them is imperative to achieving the health and vitality we all look for.
How does tallow affect skincare differently from plant-based oils?
Tallow is effective for dry, sensitive skin or troubled skin because it assimilates quickly and deeply while restoring balance and moisture. Its fatty acid profile is very similar to human sebum and carries a blast of nutrients into the system without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue on the skin. It is chock full of vitamins, including A, D, E, and K., that contribute to keeping the skin healthy, support barrier function, and keep the skin supple.
Plant-based oils have the same hydrating properties as tallow, but they absorb differently. Coconut and palm oils tend to be heavy on the skin and can cause breakouts. Another is jojoba oil, which acts similarly to tallow but lacks some of tallow's fat-soluble vitamins. However, these oils contain antioxidants and essential fatty acids and are rich in vitamins, but they also often require preservatives —something we never use —to prevent oxidation. Tallow contains natural preservatives due to its high saturated fat content, which resists oxidation and rancidity.
As you can see, both tallow and plant-based oils are beneficial for the skin. Our skincare is predominantly made from responsibly sourced tallow, which acts as the carrier oil when combined with plant-based oils.
Let’s take a closer look at a few of our plant-based oils and their benefits:
*Organic Castor Oil - Organic castor oil is highly beneficial for skin because it’s rich in ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid with strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and moisturizing properties. It deeply hydrates by locking in moisture, supports collagen and elastin production for smoother, youthful-looking skin, and helps cleanse pores by dissolving dirt and excess oil. Its natural antibacterial qualities make it useful for soothing acne and promoting healing. When cold-pressed and organic, it retains nutrients and avoids harsh chemicals, making it safe and effective for most skin types.
*Organic Jojoba Oil - Organic jojoba oil is excellent for skin because it closely mimics natural sebum, helping balance oil production and provide deep hydration without clogging pores. Rich in vitamin E, B vitamins, and antioxidants, it protects against environmental damage, soothes inflammation, and supports healing for acne-prone or dry skin. Its antibacterial, non-comedogenic, and organic cold-pressed nature ensures pure, gentle nourishment that keeps skin healthy, smooth, and glowing.
*Organic Argon Oil - Organic argan oil is rich in vitamin E, fatty acids, and antioxidants that deeply hydrate, protect, and rejuvenate the skin. It strengthens the skin barrier, improves elasticity, and helps reduce fine lines, scars, and dryness. Naturally anti-inflammatory and non-comedogenic, it soothes irritation and balances oily or acne-prone skin, while its cold-pressed, organic purity ensures gentle, nutrient-rich care for a smooth, radiant complexion.
*Organic Rosehip Oil - known for its regenerative properties, rosehip oil supports skin repair, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes.
*Organic Vitamin E Oil - A potent antioxidant, Vitamin E helps protect the skin from environmental damage, promoting a healthier, more youthful appearance.
*Organic Grapeseed Oil - Contains anti-inflammatory properties that relieve red, irritated, acne-prone, and swollen skin.
*Organic Myrrh - Anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties which help fight off bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. Myrrh can help wound healing by stimulating the immune system and promoting tissue regeneration.
*Frankincense - Boosts collagen production that relieves fine lines and wrinkles, and acts as a natural astringent that tightens and tones the skin. It helps accelerate the healing of wounds, sores, and minor cuts, and contains anti-oxidant benefits that protect the skin from free radicals.
As you can see, since tallow assimilates deeply into the skin and brings all of its health benefits, including those of added plant-based oils, the very best nutritional compounds provide the ultimate profile of nutrition for the skin. By combining the best of organic, grass-fed tallow with high-quality organic oils, we know that our customers are getting the very best nutrition and healthy skin benefits possible. Every product we produce, from creams to soaps and more, is completely chemical-free. Pure and effective, full of life-giving properties and deep nourishment for the entire body, we rest assured that our customers are getting only the best possible products to produce that healthy, glowing skin packed with vitality.
Don’t forget your Christmas boxes!
We are well into November, and Christmas is on the horizon! Give the gift of toxin-free, all-natural skincare. Our holiday boxes come pre-wrapped and ready to moisturize all skin types. Grab them while they’re hot! Click here!
Something Saucey and Savory
Rosemary Smashed Potatoes
Ingredients~
1 1/2 lb small Yukon gold new potatoes
1/4 cup Rosemary Infused Olive Oil
1/2 cup parmesan cheese
salt and pepper to taste
1 c sour ctersm
4 tbsp chopped chives
*Preheat oven to 475
*Place washed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil
*Simmer until fork-tender and drain
*Place potatoes back into the hot pot and allow to cool slightly. (The heat of the container will help the potatoes to dry.)
*Once cooled, place potatoes on a lined baking tray and gently smash each one with the bottom of a glass, so the skin breaks and the potatoes flatten to about 1/2 inch.
*Brush potatoes with Rosemary Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil and place in the preheated oven. Bake for 5 minutes, then flip potatoes over. Brush again with Rosemary Infused Olive Oil and sprinkle with parmesan cheese and salt, and pepper.
*Return potatoes to oven and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until golden and the edges are crispy.
*Serve with sour cream and garnish with chopped chives.
Our Beautiful Home
November skies are full of mystery and intrigue, sometimes blowing big fluffy clouds across the sky, and at other times, dark and foreboding ones. I love the contrast of expression and the coming of slower days. The fire is burning in the woodstove, and the kitchen is alive with making and baking. Each season brings just the right comforts and refreshments needed.
This winter, consider a quote by Anne of Green Gables ~
"Which would you rather be… divinely beautiful or dazzlingly clever or angelically good?”
Worth a thought…
Until next we meet….stay warm and cozy!
Susan and the Possum Fox family
Holiday Merrymaking, Wild Boar Ragu, and Embracing the Season of Beauty
A Season of Beauty…
Welcome, friend!
I’m sitting here in my robe after an early morning cup of coffee with just a bit of a chill in the air. Fall is the season of transformation and nourishment. Like a cocoon, we take time to slow down and rest. We hope you are taking good care of yourself and enjoying some of the peace and beauty that the autumn season brings.
Our Holiday Gift Boxes have arrived, offering healthy skin-nourishing choices for all. Take the stress out of picking and choosing, and let us do the work for you!
Holiday merrymaking….
And there they are, so content to pose for us. What good sports they are - not to mention my excitement as I jump up and down with a treat in my hand behind the camera! Anything for the perfect shot!!
Chantilly Lace with her pretty face!
And the Black Panther…grrr!
Feel good thoughts…
It was one of those days when the world smells like sunshine and leaves, and everything feels a little bit happier than usual.
Piglet laughed, tossing a handful of leaves into the air. “Do you think the trees know we love their leaves this much?”
“Of course they do,” said Pooh. “That’s why they let them go so gently - so we can catch them, dance with them, and remember that every ending can still be beautiful.” ~ Winnie the Pooh
Memories, pressed between the pages of my mind….
Sound familiar, anyone?
I took my pup, Francesca, for an autumn walk today, bundled in a sweater and hat under a canopy of colorful leaves. While they shimmered vibrantly in the sunshine, I began to warm up nicely, which soon became uncomfortable. It was then that I recalled a childhood memory.
I had gotten a new wool sweater for school, and I was so excited to wear it. Fall was here, for Pete’s sake, so it must be sweater season. I put it on and walked down the road to the bus stop. It was crisp outside with a chill in the air, and the sky was a robin egg blue. I felt all warm and comfy in my new sweater. All went well until lunch recess, when I began to sweat profusely. And I had developed a heat rash on my chest and stomach. I didn’t have the forethought to put a t-shirt on underneath, so I could remove my miserable sweater. I thought I would almost die.
Well, the good news is I obviously survived, but I laugh to think that, just because it was officially fall, it was cold enough to wear a sweater. I chalked this one down to experience!
What’s Possum Fox up to this week…
We are excited to be a part of The Fall Farmhouse Show this weekend at the Oregon Christian Convention Center, October 23 ~ 25 in Turner, Oregon. We will be at our booth Thursday evening from 4-8 pm, Friday from 10-6 pm, and Saturday from 10-4 pm.
Possum Fox Backyard Goods will have their fine tallow skincare, as well as their new Holiday Gift Boxes, available for purchase. Drop by, say hello, and get a head start on your holiday shopping. All of our Holiday Gift boxes are designed for everyone, with six selections to choose from.
This Sunday, October 26th, is our last Sisters Farmers Market for the year, so please stop by and restock some items while you do some early Christmas shopping. We will have our Holiday Gift Boxes ready for purchase, so you won’t want to miss this one.
Oh! In addition…
It’s marathon madness at the Happy Girls Run in Sisters this weekend. Come find us in our booth downtown on Friday, October 24th, from 4-7 pm, and Saturday, October 25th, from 8 - 2 pm.
Delizioso! Cook up an authentic and savory Italian fall dish
Who can resist a steaming hot plate of Savory Wild Boar Ragu? I fall for it every time I see it on a menu. Better yet, I’ve discovered a recipe that I can’t wait to share with you. It is hearty, authentic, and full of those warm fall seasonings that I want to wrap myself around and keep with me forever. Gather all of your recipe ingredients and watch this instructional video from Elizabeth Minchilli.
Let’s talk tallow…
A recent medical study found that beef tallow has various benefits for the skin, including moisturizing, hydrating, and anti-microbial properties, meaning it could prevent bacteria from damaging the skin.
The study involved 78 participants who used a topical emulsion with tallow as the main ingredient. The emulsion was found to help particular skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and eczema, which all benefit significantly from moisturizing.
The composition also closely resembles our skin, which appears to improve elasticity.
Beef tallow contains several vitamins and minerals, including the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, and minerals like zinc, iron, and selenium. It also provides other nutrients like choline, B vitamins, and conjugated linoleic acid.
And this is just the beginning of the benefits of beef tallow. Our ancestors knew a thing or two when they used beef tallow to nourish their skin, to treat cuts and wounds, and while cooking savory dishes. Beef tallow is more than a fad; I believe it’s here to stay.
Stay warm and cozy…
Once again, it’s wonderful to connect with you and invite you to journey with us. From our backyard to yours, may your week be full of autumn bliss!
Sincerely,
Rose, Isaac, Susan, Pax, and Chase
The Possum Fox family
Meet the Possum Fox Family!
Dear Friends,
It has occurred to me over the last few days that we have not properly introduced our Possum Fox family to you. In fact, I feel a bit embarrassed, like I put the cart before the horse, which I am known to do now and then. So without further ado, let the introductions begin!
Meet Rose, our alchemist extraordinaire…
Rose Etherington began her career in the creative world of film, where she spent eight years honing her eye for storytelling and visual design. Her love for creativity and connection eventually led her into the entrepreneurial world, where she guided bold, mission-driven entrepreneurs to stand out through digital marketing and design.
Rose realized early on that she had a deep passion for natural health and wellness. As a result, she developed a toxin-free, all-natural, organic skincare product based on beef tallow to create nourishment for the body from the outside in. Intrigued by the phenomenal benefits of beef tallow, she delved deeper and developed her skincare line, Possum Fox. She enjoys the pursuit of living naturally, eating clean, moving joyfully, and staying connected to nature, family, and faith.
Rose and her husband, Isaac, live in Central Oregon with their two wild and woolly boys, Pax and Chase, where they spend their time adventuring on high desert trails, pine-scented forests, and pristine mountain lakes.
Isaac, our medevac helicopter pilot and all-around family man -
Isaac serves Central Oregon in the sky, on the ground, and in the creative space. As a medevac helicopter pilot for Lifeflight Network, he plays a vital role in emergency medical response. When lives are on the line, Isaac is in the air, navigating Oregon’s rugged landscapes with calm precision and unwavering focus.
Beyond his work in aviation, Isaac shares a passion for natural living and strives to bring all that it encompasses to the lives of others. As a partner with Rose in the development and promotion of Possum Fox tallow skincare, they are a dynamic duo.
Most importantly, Isaac is a devoted husband and proud father of two adventurous boys. Together with his family, he explores the mountains, rivers, and open skies that make Central Oregon home.
Susan, Writer and general all-around support gal -
Susan, also known as Grandma Susan to her wild and wooley little grandsons Pax and Chase, hales from the Willamette Valley in western Oregon. As a seasoned international travel writer and wine/culture connoisseur, she embodies an adventurous spirit that won’t take a back seat to her advancing years.
On a tamer side, Susan found her career in hospital administration. She is a gregarious soul and loves to work with others. Her love of travel, culture, history, food, and wine, and most of all her faith, has been her passion in life, and she’s not showing any signs of slowing down.
Susan lives with her Possum Fox family in Central Oregon and shares their passion for natural living. She loves all of the outdoor amenities that the high desert country has to offer and especially enjoys walking her English Labrador, Francesca, over mountain trails. Aperitivo over an engaging conversation lights her up, and she’s never far from a good coffee shop.
Our Backyard Boys ~ Pax & Chase…
Our latest Backyard Drama…
Squawks, screaming, yelling, barking, and all-out commotion happened this week just outside the backyard fence. One of our hens, a super duper egg-laying lady named Boss Baby, got herself on the other side of the fence and, boy oh boy, did she quickly discover it wasn’t the adventure she hoped for.
The neighbor’s Golden Retriever, Jess, had evidently caught sight of her and lit out like a streak after her. She was in all-out panic mode at Jess’ and ran harem-scarem along the fence line. The situation quickly turned into a frenzy. Jess ran up and grabbed the hen’s tail with his teeth. Boss Baby let out a thunderous squawk that got everyone excited, including our two dogs and the boys.
Mass chaos ensued until Jess’s owner, who had just caught up with her dog, grabbed her collar and pulled her back. Rose ran out and grabbed the chicken up in her arms. Boss Baby was bleeding from the tail end a bit, so she was bedded in the empty dog crate for the night. Morning found her in a better mood, and her hind end looked like it was healing. It was a very close call for Boss Baby, and it would have been a sad day for the boys had it turned out differently. Along with family and backyard animals, it seems like there is never a boring moment.
Boss Baby was NOT a happy camper!
What’s coming up for Possum Fox this week….
We are working hard to get our products ready for markets this coming weekend in Central Oregon. One is the Fungi Festival in Sunriver on Saturday, October 11th, and the Wetland’s Taphouse Makers Market on Saturday, October 11th, and Sunday, October 12th.
A lot of preparation is underway for the week, with production and everything that goes with it. All hands on deck, sleeves rolled up, and a good attitude is what it takes. We got this!
A newsletter just wouldn’t be a newsletter without a yummy harvest recipe…
Embrace the cosiness of fall with this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta recipe from Alyssa Ponticello
SO, WHAT EXACTLY IS CREAMY PUMPKIN PASTA ANYWAY?
“…… think of this as the fall cousin of traditional spicy alla vodka, but with a few upgrades. Obviously, the main one being the addition of pumpkin, which gives this a touch of creamy fall flavor. The big upgrade being the addition of ‘nduja, which just adds a nice kick and bit of extra warmth to this dish. Of course, pumpkin and sage pair together so beautifully so I couldn’t resist the addition of crispy sage to really round out this pasta. And obviously we have all our usual alla vodka ingredients that make this dish so creamy and dreamy- heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, butter and a touch of tomato paste.”
Spend some time in the kitchen while vibrant leaves swirl in the crisp autumn breeze. Stay warm and cozy with this delicious fall recipe…
For pasta, unless you want to make your own, I highly recommend our good friends at Bombaci Handmade Pasta! Google them to find a store near you that sells this pasta. Or you can order from their website. It is SO worth it!
Happy October, friends! We hope this month brings you many autumn delights….harvest candles, warm pumpkin bread, simmering minestrone, rustic whole grain rolls, hearty pasta, and copious cups of aromatic teas. Kick back with a good book while the autumn rains descend. Keep warm, reminisce, and enjoy the season.
Warmly,
The Possum Fox family
Minestrone, the unsung hero of the Italian table
“Each of the six villages in Sardinia’s blue zones area prides itself on recipes for both summer and winter minestrones: these chunky and hearty fresh vegetable soups are made and enjoyed year-round with in-season vegetables. Not only do these soups provide several helpings of vegetables, but they also deliver a full daily dose of beans, a favorite longevity supplement. This bountiful dish is eaten for lunch every day by the world’s longest-lived family, the Melises.” - Dan Buettner, The Blue Zones Kitchen.
Minestrone is my favorite all-around soup. A steaming mug of minestrone on a cold day is soothing to the tummy as well as the soul. This recipe is my personal favorite, and I love having a pot of it in the refrigerator that we can heat up any time.
I used canned cannelloni beans and canned pinto beans instead of dried beans. I also used gluten-free peas, lentils, and cauliflower pasta instead of the Sardinian Fregula. Remember, this soup is typically made with your own available in-season vegetables from the garden or pantry. So be creative!
The following recipe is the Melis Family Minestrone:
7 Tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
2 medium carrots, peeled, and Chopped (about 2/3 cup)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
½ cup dried cranberry beans, soaked overnight (or ½ 15 oz can drained)
2 medium celery stalks, chopped (About ½ cup)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
½ cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight (or ½ 15-oz can, drained)
One 28-oz can crushed tomatoes
3 medium yellow potatoes, Peeled and diced (about 1 ½ cups)
½ cup dried and peeled fava beans, soaked overnight (or one 15-oz can drained)
¼ cup loosely packed fresh Italian flat-leaf parsley leaves, Chopped
6 to 8 cups of water
⅔ cup Sardinian Fregula, Israeli couscous, or acini di pepe pasta
Salt and pepper to taste
Warm 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven set over medium-high heat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery: cook, stirring often, until soft, but not browned, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, and cook until fragrant, about 20 seconds.
Stir in the tomatoes, potatoes, fennel, parsley, and basil, the drained beans and chickpeas. Add enough water (about 6 to 8 cups) so that everything is submerged by 1 inch.
Raise the heat to high and bring the pot to a full boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, until the beans are tender, adding more water as necessary, about 1 ½ hours. If using canned beans, simmer for only 10 minutes.
Stir in the pasta, salt, and pepper. Add up to 2 cups of water if the soup seems too dry. Continue simmering, uncovered, until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.
Pour 1 tablespoon of olive oil into the bowl before serving.
Having an Attitude of Gratitude
Pax (Possum) and Chase (Fox) show their gratitude.
"On the other side of the fires, what will grow is so much more lush and green, fertilized by what was, growing into what will be" - author unknown
An autumn crispness fills the early morning air as I walk my Labrador Francesca up the road above my house. The mountains on the horizon stand tall and magnificent below a mixture of pink and blue-hued clouds, reminding me that I’ve been gifted with another new day, still freshly made and yet unwritten. All is silent as my eyes scan the tall pines, standing like they’ve always stood since they were just seedlings. Yet not far off lies the Whychus Creek Canyon, changed forever since the ravaging fire that barely a month ago roared through its deep, winding ravine, devastating everything in its pathway. No longer a lush and natural wildland with pathways leading down to the melodic creek below, it is burnt and stripped of all its prior beauty. What was once a pine-infused wonderland of wildlife and eagles’ nests is now a hollow cylinder of emptiness.
My heart aches with longing for what once was - an oasis of natural beauty. Yet what is more important are the firefighters and first responders who gave their lives, their hearts, and their souls to save our homes from destruction. Time and again, we witnessed their staggering, bent-over bodies climb out of the ravine, faces blackened and hair below their hard hats singed to a crisp. Axes and shovels hoisted above their shoulders, evidence of a full night’s duty of fighting fires that they knew could not come up the hill to engulf the houses and neighborhood that lay beyond.
They are no longer in the canyon fighting fires now, but their heroic acts of self-sacrifice are fresh in our minds. My grandson’s Pax and Chase were so touched and relieved they had a house to go home to that they took some posterboard and made thank you signs for the firefighters who were slowly packing up their gear and leaving the neighborhood. It was a job well done by all of them, and our hearts were full of gratitude as we stood and waved them on while they passed by.
Life is like coming and going sometimes. Tragedy strikes in various ways, and we feel like we just can’t breathe. Devastation shakes our souls and numbs our minds for a time. Loss and grief engulf us as we come to terms with the reality of our situation. We miss what was, the beauty that flourished so profoundly.
"That's when I saw it. A single green blade of grass... A shoot of life among the black. The future surging from the past". - Celeste Ng
And yet our hearts have grown to rest in gratitude and peace. Yes, the canyon has changed forever, but our houses are still standing and our lives are still waiting for us. Our families, friends, and neighbors are here as they were before. The blessings of each other, of life lived together, day by day, are more than enough to fill our hearts with an abundance of gratitude.
As I stand to survey the beauty of the morning and drink in the freshness of a new day, I feel alive with possibilities. I know that difficult seasons will eventually pass, but joy, hope, and restoration will arrive with each fresh new day.
“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning,” Psalm 30:5
Fire!!! And what we learned
How could a wildfire 20 miles away come crashing down the canyon with such velocity and send us all scattering to safety within days? What started in Culver, just north of Sisters, spiraled quickly out of control, sending firefighters and first responders no option but to risk their lives in desperate attempts to head off the blazing force. Reinforcements were on their way from destinations near and far, but they couldn’t get to the fire scene fast enough.
A few days before, our little backyard farm lay peacefully under the dark swirling clouds. The chickens turned a weary eye upward, their clucks becoming silent. A stillness settled on the flock. Something was brewing, and nature was responding.
Hmmmm, somethings amiss, said our little red hen
The wind picked up in gusts, causing the accumulating smoky air to swirl about. My eyes were stinging, and my throat was dry. I checked the Watch Duty app on my phone. Much to my surprise, I found that my neighborhood was classified as a level one, which meant we should be plan for the possibility of evacuation.
My daughter, Rose, who is the alchemist for Possum Fox Tallow Skincare, was at the Redmond Farmers Market managing her booth. I whisked around the house gathering important memorabilia like old photo albums, my metal box of treasures, clothes thrown in bags, shoes, toiletries, and so on.
It wasn’t long before we were moved to level two. That’s when it became real to me, and I flew through the house with a vengeance, packing and sacking whatever I thought we might need. Rose was folding up her booth at the market, packing it all into her van for the 20-minute ride home.
Rose never arrived! We went to level three in just a few minutes. I jumped in the car with two big dogs and a loose cat and backed out like a madwoman. Most of the neighbors were already hooked up to trailers and began leaving in caravan style. The air all around us grew darker and smokier. I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry…
Mystified Little Mary Jane…
I met Rose at the farmers' market and followed her to a place to stay for the night. But what about the chickens? I had left them loose in the yard, so at least they had a chance. It wasn’t until the next morning that we were able to return to the deserted neighborhood. We put them in the dog crate, which was on the pickup bed. Sadly, we found only four of the five hens. One of them had obviously become dinner to a predator by the trail of feathers that led through the yard and over the fence to the sagebrush pasture beyond.
We relocated the four surviving hens to a friend’s empty chicken coop. No doubt they were well looked after, and I was relieved to know there would be no more loss of chicken life.
We stayed for a week at our friends’ house in Bend, which was so convenient for all of us. They were packed up and ready to leave for a one-week vacation and could use a dog sitter. With their two dogs and ours, it worked like magic. All four got along very well, and we quickly grew accustomed to walking through a sea of dogs wherever we went.
Whychus Canyon devestated
Our home was reduced from level three to level two five days later. Some of our neighbors had returned home, but we knew that the air was still filled with smoke toxins. Although we longed to be back home, we decided to wait a few more days. When we did, we were so relieved to see that little had changed at our house and those of our neighbors. I parked the car and, after unloading it, walked down to the canyon. I was blown away by the looming devestation spread out before me. Ugly blackness filled the canyon. It would be years before our beautiful canyon was teeming with tall pines and green underbrush. A rush of sadness coursed through me, and my eyes filled with tears. What I had once taken for granted was no more. Everything was changed. But I knew that after the coming winter, when springtime returned, I would go back down to the canyon and see little sprigs of green stirring under the warm sunlight.
In this time of turmoil, when everything around us seemed to be disintegrating before our eyes, we clung tightly to each other. Life demanded much more from us; it reached deep down inside and pulled up courage we didn't know we had, a solid steadfastness, and faith in a God that proved his guiding presence time and again.
Respecting the Gift of Life
Here at Possum Fox, we share a passion for honoring traditional wisdom by embracing a great respect for the land. Working with nature means gently assisting its activity with love and compassion. From the butterfly to the beef cow, our vision is one of utmost respect, which in turn fuels a sense of wonder and joy in a privileged participation.
In pondering the organic, grass-fed beef tallow used in our products, I was reminded of the great gift of nourishment these animals provide. I greatly admire the Native American Indians, who valued the bison, showing respect and honor after the hunt by using every part of the animal.
The bison gave the gift of life by sacrificing its own.
The flesh and blood of the bison were a part of the flesh and blood of the Plains Indians. They were a symbol of life and abundance.
These mighty bison provided nourishment, clothing, shelter (tipis), and horns and bones for tools. The Plains Indians had more than 150 different uses for the various bison parts. They would even use the bladder to hold water.
The tribes used tallow ( rendered fat) predominatly in food and skincare. They made pemmican, a staple, calorie rich food especially for travel. It consisted of dried pounded meat mixed with rendered fat and sometimes berries. The tallow preserved the meat and added a food rich in vitamins and essential nutrients.
They also used tallow to make skin moisturizer to protect from the dry desert sun and wind on the open plains. They relied on tallow for medicinal ointments and insect repellent.
For the Plains Indians, bison equaled survival by providing all the necessities of life. Without the buffalo, there would have been a serious lack of sustenance for the tribes.
They lived by the traditions of their ancestors, which taught them to cherish and protect the earth and all its plants and animals. We at Possum Fox possess the same mind, embracing the same values. We attain our beef tallow from organic, grass-fed beef, typically raised on small ranches. These animals are raised with compassion and respect. We believe that an animal treated with care and consideration for its welfare will, in return, nourish the life of the consumer.
We are grateful to be a part of that.
"The cattle and the land, they are connected to each other, they are connected to the environment, and they are connected to us.”
Grab Some End Of Summer Fun!
A mid-August panic is once again building in the minds of families across the nation. School break is about to end. The question is: what last-minute excursions can we take with the kids before school begins?
A mid-August panic is once again building in the minds of families across the nation. School break is about to end. The question is: what last-minute excursions can we take with the kids before school begins?
My mind was swirling with possibilities when my six-year-old grandson came into the room, dripping wet from a dip in the pool. Like water streaming off a duck's back, the wood floor beneath him pooled within seconds. My first reaction was to grab a towel, shoo him back out, and proceed to wipe up the water mess. What happened was a slow movement to hand him a towel and usher him back outside. I promised ice-cold root beers and chips to follow.
The hot August was slowly inching by under the toasty Central Oregon sky. I had just made some hamburger patties to put on the outdoor grill for later that evening. Gazing out the window, I watched my grandsons languishing beside the pool, taking an occasional opportunity to slither back into the cool water for another water gun war. The family dog was watching from a shady corner, relieved to remain an observer.
Ah, the dog days of summer…
The thought of school starting up again in just a few weeks made me think about grabbing some last-minute memories with the family. There was plenty of summer fun to be had yet, and time was growing short. Visions of camping trips, trail trekking, and picnics on the shores of a lake began to take shape. Dangling our legs from the dock and dipping our toes in the cool water, telling scary stories from our makeshift tents, and catching fireflies in jars as they glowed in the dark were all summertime memories that I cherished. I grabbed a notepad and began to recollect the fun I had as a kid on the farm.
Stargazing is crazy fun!
It was on one of those warm August nights that my family and I spread blankets out on the lawn. When the last light was turned off, I quickly noticed how incredibly dark it was in the country.
I looked up at the sky, littered with thousands of stars. All of them sparkled brightly and looked like tiny windows into another realm. As I continued to watch in silence, I noticed one dart across the sky. Before long, I saw another one, and another, and on it continued. I had never seen anything so beautiful and so thrilling in all my life. There were a lot of ooohhhs and aaawwws from everyone that evening before our eyes grew heavy with sleep.
Don’t forget lake-life…
Another favorite was spending time on a local lake. We brought a picnic lunch tucked inside an old woven basket that usually consisted of baked chicken, homemade bread, butter from our cows, home-canned pickles, fresh-cut vegetables and fruit from the garden, and some of my mother’s wild blackberry pie. For whatever reason, eating in the great outdoors made everything taste better, and there was hardly any food left over by the end of the day.
Afterward, we did some fishing at the lake. I loved watching my dad open his tackle box, full of brightly colored fishing lures. The greens, blues, oranges, and yellows shimmered in the sunlight. Dad did the grunt work of baiting the hooks and taking the fish off to clean them after the catch. I was cool with that, so I hunkered down on the bank and waited patiently for that first tug on the line.
Foraging for wild blackberries while on a nature walk…
Some of my best summer memories were foraging for wild blackberries. While on a hike, I mentally marked the spots with ripe fruit to pick and continued on my way. Heading back, we’d stop to pick bags of fruit that were often nearly bursting at the seams by the time we were done. It was a chore just to get them home, but the rewards of canned fruit, jam, and pie were so worth it.
My childhood musings were interrupted by the sliding door opening and two inquisitive boys asking me what happened to the root beer and chips. Oh, those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer that pull at your brain and tickle your mind with imaginings. Needless to say, the boys dashed back out to the pool while I followed behind with root beer and chips, and a good dose of hugs.
Tallow, Why All The Hype?
Tallow, why all the hype? Is tallow just a fad that will fade out like so many other claimed miracle-working ingredients for the skin? Does it work?
Tallow, why all the hype? Is tallow just a fad that will fade out like so many other claimed miracle-working ingredients for the skin? Does it work?
Similar to every trend that captures public attention, becoming a source of fascination and enjoyment for a period before eventually diminishing, tallow is currently enjoying a peak in consumer popularity. However, this particular item is unlikely to fade anytime soon, if at all.
Grass-fed organic beef tallow is a major powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals guaranteed to penetrate the skin, providing rich nutrients that nourish our bodies from the outside in. Because beef tallow contains specific fatty acids, such as palmitic, stearic, and linoleic acid, it provides a protective layer on the skin that prevents water loss and strengthens the skin barrier. Hydration is crucial for achieving soft, healthy skin. In addition, beef tallow is rich in vitamins A, D, E, and K.
Tallow is closely related to our skin’s oil, known as sebum, which is primarily composed of a type of fat called triglycerides. Tallow consists mainly of triglycerides as well. Hence, tallow, a bio-identical lipid, is closely related to human skin.
The ancient Egyptians knew the secrets of tallow and utilized it in their advanced beauty rituals to maintain plump, youthful, and hydrated skin. They highly valued tallow’s ability to moisturize and protect the skin, especially in the harsh desert climate.
The Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans recognized the rich benefits of tallow and utilized it as the primary component in their skincare products, balms, and ointments.
In more recent times, early pioneers and settlers utilized beef tallow as the primary ingredient for skincare. Tallow was frequently used in homemade skincare products, like soaps and balms. Early Americans used it to soothe chapped hands and lips, particularly in winter. They found tallow very effective when used as medicinal ointments for treating minor wounds and skin ailments.
Today, many people are beginning to embrace the nourishing and hydrating properties of organic grass-fed beef tallow. And the numbers are growing dramatically day by day. Tallow is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and for good reasons. It works!