People always want to know what in the world made us get into the alpaca business? Looking back, I think it was just one of those things that God put in our path, along with the people and the trials placed in our lives at just the right time. The alpaca lifestyle keeps us humble, helps us realize we are not in charge, gets us outdoors to enjoy the beauty of this world, and teaches us compassion.

My best alpaca-friend today is a little boy we call “Nightrider”.  He laid on my lap several hours (sedated of course), for a plasma transfer when he was just a few days old. I think he remembers!   He comes to see me and we “eskimo kiss” and he makes my day. Even after a round of antibiotics and shots twice a day, he still likes me. I think animals know when we’re trying to help them – this little guy touches my heart.

This is one of many stories I could tell about our alpacas.  They don’t ask for much, but they give so much in return.  It is amazing to me how it all works just the way it is supposed to, a cria is born, struggles to her feet, finds her mom and begins nursing, usually within an hour after birth. Born early in the day to survive the extreme  temperature drop of their native country, they still maintain the same internal “clock” today.

Each alpaca with her own personality and disposition, they slow us down and bring a sense of calmness in our busy lives.  I’ve been known to sit in the pasture on a Sunday morning, with a cup of coffee, my crocheting, and my camera if I remember.  So serene.  One morning I watched a mama deer, her two little ones, and a group of alpaca moms and babies, get acquainted on opposite sides of the fence.  It was a precious moment in time.

When the babies run, the work stops, and we watch, amazed and entertained!  Life is simpler … the alpacas bring us little stress … and much joy.  Learning to work with their luxurious fiber has been an unexpected pleasure… and to be able to nurture my creative side a huge bonus.  I love this quote by Robert Klabacka, “Find something you love to do, and you’ll never have to work another day in your life.”  I have found that something!

Come visit our farm in Mansfield, Ohio.  Sit under a shade tree and watch the alpacas pronk around the pasture. Listen to them hummmm. Watch their beautiful fleece move elegantly with the wind when they run. See the babies play! Smell the smells and feel the sun on your back. Be surrounded by the wonder of nature as you witness these gentle creatures and see why we enjoy the lifestyle that alpacas provide. Who would have guessed we could have found a business to be involved in as a family and have so much fun.  For the independent spirit, it just doesn’t get any better than this!

OUR GOALS

• We are committed to breed quality bloodlines for excellence in conformation, that grow an abundant exquisite fleece, and exhibit a pleasing temperament.
• We are committed to developing a family business where each member might find their area of expertise and flourish.
• We are committed to sharing our passion with others and helping the new owner get off to a good start.
• We are committed to the Fiber Arts, to explore the endless possibilities of all grades of alpaca fiber, to indulge in the creative processes as well as seek out the work of other fiber artists, and to offer unique alpaca items for purchase in our farm and on-line stores.

CHOOSING A BREEDER

Choosing a breeder that has good business sense, is honest and forthright, and is educated in this market, is as important as choosing the right alpacas. Sage advice passed on to us such as “stick with the winners” and “find someone who is a success and emulate what they have done” has proven to be most beneficial in making this business work. Find a breeder who has the time and the inclination to listen to your questions and answer them in a timely manner. Look for animals that excite you, and look for people who will work with you to build a successful business. We started with quality alpaca breeders, have a quality foundation herd, and we now offer to you our knowledge and experience in getting started or adding to your own herd.

Everyone has their own reasons, motivations, and budgets when deciding to get into the alpaca business. We can help guide you, at your own pace, through the alternatives that need to be considered. Do you like Suri or Huacaya? White or color? Breeding quality or pets?

One of the most critical decisions you will make involves the selection of breeding stock. The decisions you make at this stage will be with you for many years and directly affect the cria you produce and the income that you can generate. Let us help you find the ideal alpaca for you. Our advice and guidance will help you make the right choices for your alpaca business.

THE NEW CUSTOMER

Our commitment to the new customer is to share with you what we have learned and offer our support to help you get started as new alpaca owners. To get you started we offer:

· Package discounts on multiple purchases.
· Assistance in selecting your foundation herd.
· Flexible financing.
· Agisting available – first 60 days free!
· On your farm consultation.
· Workshop for new owners that includes hands-on training.
· Detailed outline of routine daily care.
· Questions answered and/or information and resources provided as needed.
· Support for all those “first times” including, but not limited to, breeding, birthing, shearing, and showing.
· Discounted breeding fees.