IPAVA — Annabelle Pratt, from Ipava, added woodworking to her hobby farm business this past fall.

Pratt makes hand made cutting and charcuterie boards, as well as other woodworking items. She is self-taught with instruction on using the woodworking tools from her husband and father-in-law.

“My father-in-law makes custom oak cabinets, and gives me the leftovers that he would normally burn or toss,” said Pratt. “I take a lot of enjoyment in it (woodworking), I love the texture and grain of the wood.”

Annabelle says she is learning to use a lettering and engraving machine as well.

“Our first time selling was at Spoon River Drive. We had a phenomenal turnout,” Pratt said.

Pratt left a post office job and recently finished her EMT certificate at Spoon River Community College. She plans to test in January for her state license.

Pratt and her husband, Nick, have two children, Mallory, 8 and Danica 4. While “rainbow” can mean a lot of things in today's world, Pratt says they named the business “Rainbow Hobby Farm” after their “rainbow baby,” Danica. The couple had lost a son in between their two daughters.

Nick is in the National Guard and she says he is very supportive of her endeavors. He also started an aquaponics operation on the farm. Annabelle says it will be a sustainable source for fish. He also started lettuce. Their farm includes five mixed breed pigs; American black belly sheep, which are used for meat, not wool; a few cows; 25 ducks; and “tons of chickens, cats and dogs.”

“We've had a really good time taking care of animals and living a simpler life.”

Pratt has items available at the Sudsy Soap store in Astoria and at Spoon River Winery between and Fiatt and Canton. She also ships to people outside of the area. Annabelle can be contacted at: 309-236-4967.

Email editor@mcdonoughvoice.com with comments or questions on this story.