The Best Christmas Ever!

Yes, I am apologizing, again, for not writing for quite some time. With the holidays, and moving my office, life has been crazy. The office is now all moved, the phones are being moved today, and Christmas Day, and Christmas dinner, is a wonderful memory.

Before I share my experiences, I must tell you about my favorite Christmas gift. But, first I must give you some background. When I wanted to buy Star, her owners had not yet registered her. Rick helped the owners through the process and told them she had been named Star. But, because Star is a registered farm name and couldn't be used, the owners registered her as Smokin" Antoinette. Her dam's name is Antoinette de Bolivia and her sire's name is Smokin' Antonio. She was still Star to us. I had told Rick, many months ago, that I'd like to change her name to Rainbow's Stargazer, which can be done through the Alpaca Registry at a hefty fee. BUT, I am still paying for her, so I couldn't change her name until I own her. Then, if she's had a cria, it is almost impossible to change her name. I doubt that I will have her paid for by the time she has a cria. WELL, last Sunday Rick, Pati and I exchanged Christmas gifts. One of my gifts from them was a box with a tag on it that said "To Mom, thanks for adopting me". Inside the box was an updated registration reading RAINBOW'S STARRGAZER!!!!! Yes, that was the best Christmas present ever. Rick and Pati are the most amazing people I've ever known and I am so grateful to have them as my friends and mentors. As soon as I got home, I framed her registration and hung it on my special Alpaca wall.

In spite of all the craziness, I would not miss going to the ranch every weekend. I think the days I spend there is how I keep my sanity. So much has happened (good things) in the last few weeks. Pati Cake was 2 months old on December 20th and is healthy, happy, and growing like a weed. She now weighs 46.4 pounds. I had an opportunity to get my hands on her fiber when she was being weighed and she is silky soft.

On December 15th, my no so little girl, Vanilla Sundae, had her first date with Show Me The Money (Mo). She was ready! It took her no time to cush and Mo got the job done! We spit tested her last weekend, and she spit real good. :) The same day, Princess had a date with Snowmass Jericho's Conquisador (Fred) and did her normal spin 3 times then cush. Princess and Fred do so well together (Alpha & Pati Cake), I didn't want to change herdsires with her.
We spit tested Star, and she ran and spit pretty good. She was bred to Fred in August, so hopefully she's 4 months pregnant. She is getting huge and it doesn't just look like fiber growth.
We spit tested Meg, as well. Still can't read her. She was, also, bred to Fred.

Felix is doing great and is a love bug, most of the time. Alpha is great, too, and doing very well walking on a halter. We've noticed some silver strands in his blanket again. It's going to be interesting to see what color he is by his first show in March 2008 in Phoenix. Two of their roommates went to a new home on Christmas Eve. Lancelet and Duke went to a family that trains Llamas for shows. They have 2 daughters that got the little boys for Christmas.

Over the past few weekends, Rick and Pati have been doing a lot of toenail and teeth trimming. I am a spectator, or help a little with holding the Alpaca. I'm sure not ready for teeth trimming, but I am going to ask them if I can try my hand at trimming toenails.

2007 has been a great year at All American Alpacas. Lots of healthy crias, lots of girls and spectacular boys, in a rainbow of interesting colors and patterns. I can't wait to see what 2008 brings!

Wishing you and yours a Happy New Year....

Happy Post Thanksgiving

Yep, I'm bad again. I've been at the ranch twice since my last post. I'm preparing to move my office and life has been crazy! O.K., here goes:

My daughter, Shelby and I, spent Thanksgiving with Rick, Pati and 14 of their closest family and friends. We had planned to pick up our dear friends, Bob and Jackie, but Jackie had surgery the week prior and wasn't feeling very well. We really missed their company. Good news...Jackie is feeling better now. Everyone brought different dishes that were YUMMY! Rick's smoked turkey and Pati's Au Gratin potatoes (with REAL cheese from Switzerland) were the icing on the cake!

Great company, conversation, food, libations and......Peaches & Cream added a new cria for our entertainment :) Yep, she delivered a darling little girl just before everyone arrived. She's a brown and fawn pattern that looks like gravy atop mashed potatoes. Rick thought her name should be Taters N Gravy. Nah! What's so amazing is Peach's little girl last year looks just like this, with a different dad.

I decided to halter up Felix and show him off to everyone. Most of the people were in the house, as it was pretty cold outside. Rick opened the door, and in we walked. The only problem, though....they have tile floors. Felix lost his footing and played slip and slide and was having a hard time getting up. With Pati's help, he made it back up on all 4's and we headed back outside.
Felix was a sweetheart and let people rub his neck and top knot.

Thank you, Rick & Pati, for a great Thanksgiving Day.

Since I was there on Thanksgiving, I decided I wouldn't go Saturday as I had to clean my garage. After 2 days of cleaning, I finally finished Saturday afternoon. I was having Alpaca withdrawals and knew I couldn't wait a whole week to see them again. So, I went Sunday.
Fred had a date with a girl Saturday (drive-by breeding) and she slimed him, big time! I guess that's a no. So, Sunday, her humans brought another girl over. She really liked Fred :)
Since breeding has been suspended until December 12 for the girls that live at All American Alpacas, I took off for the fields to take pictures and spend some time with the herd. Pati Cake is very independent and doesn't spend much time with mom. Princess seems to be O.K. with that. Pati Cake likes to hang out with the boys. She, especially, seems to like Christopher and Majik. I have high hopes for her and Majik when they grow up :) There are so many new crias running around, in every color imaginable (and some colors you wouldn't imagine). I could sit on the ground and watch them all day. Check out the picture I took of Tonto :)

Rick, Pati and I took Felix, Alpha and Aerosmith for a walk. Pati was looking at Alpha's fiber and noticed, when you part it, there are patches of silver strands running through it. For awhile, we had detected some silver spots on him, but they seemed to have disappeared. Obviously, with the fiber growth, they were hidden. So, now we are back to wondering what color he is going to be. Right now he is considered light brown, but MAY turn rose gray. Holy smokes! Would that be cool, or what? I, kiddingly, said I didn't want ANOTHER rose gray. Yeah, right! His fiber is fantastic, so I think we may have a chance at some nice ribbons in 2008. After his walk, I held him while Rick trimmed his toenails.

I noticed that Star and Meg Ryan weren't joined at the hip today. They are, usually, inseparable. Maybe one, or both, of them are really pregnant. It's been a challenge for both of them (not to mention for me). They spent most of the day in separate fields. Hormones? I sure hope so.

Finished up the day helping with treats, which is one of my favorite things. I'm their best friend when I walk in the field with the blue bucket :)

Rick is leaving tomorrow for a 5000 mile transport, stopping in Northern California, Texas, New Mexico and Colorado. He'll be back in about a week with Show Me The Money (Mo). My girl, Vanilla Sundae, will have her very first date with Mo in mid-December. She's ready. I'll be out at the ranch Saturday to help Pati trim teeth and toenails. I can't wait!

Wow, I almost forgot! On November 12th, we weighed Felix and Alpha. Felix: 102.5 pounds (1 year, 3 months old), Alpha: 80.7 pounds (1 year, 1 week old)

Pedicure Day

I know, I'm bad. I didn't write last week. Somehow, the time just got away from me. Actually, last week we didn't do much but watch rear ends (hoping a cria would pop out of Windy, Peach or Katarine). Nope. Same happened yesterday. Peach really looked like yesterday was the day. Nope. She'll probably deliver today. Maybe one of the other girls will deliver on Thanksgiving. Shelby and I, as well as our dear friends, Jackie and Bob, will be spending Thanksgiving with Rick, Pati, friends, family and the herd. Rick cooks the turkey and it is YUMMY. Plus, can't wait for Pati's Au Gratin potatoes. Double Yummy!

Yesterday was a beautiful day and the Alpacas were loving it. Pati had an appointment, so Rick let me help him trim toesnails. First up, Vivace. He's such a big boy, it was hard to hold him while Rick trimmed. So, he went in the chute. In no time, he had a pedicure, complete with a little nail polish to surprise Pati. Yep, real men wear pink :) After he was done, it was on to the girls. Breeze, Moony and Vanilla Sundae were pretty cooperative with me holding them. Well, somewhat anyway. Rick has a transport the first part of December. Pati told me while he is gone, we are going to trim more toenails and teeth. So far, I've been the holder. Maybe I'll get up enough nerve to be the trimmer.

I spent some time with the little boys, and had every intention of walking Felix and Alpha. But, while I was sitting on the ground in the nursery taking pictures, I tweaked my ankle and it hurt really bad, so no walks. I'll make it up to them on Thanksgiving.

Pati Cake is looking like a star. Her favorite buddy seems to be Christopher, who is just as white as she is black. The two of them, together, is quite a contrast. She's very independent, and has no problem being out of mom's sight. Princess seems to let her do her thing. Vanilla Sundae is quite the beautiful young lady. She has grown so much, and her fiber is dense and thick and poofy. I got some really good photos of her. I'm real excited about her first "date" next month with "Show Me The Money" (Mo). The way she's been acting when breeding is going on, I'm sure she's excited too. The cria they produce should be magnificent, as they both have impressive lineage. Star looks pregnant to me. I don't know if it's just how much her fiber as grown out, wishful thinking,or if she really has a baby in that tummy. Rick says she's been acting different, so maybe....Meg Ryan is acting a little different too, so hopefully she's pregnant. Time will tell.

Happy 1st Birthday, ALPHA!

Yep, today is my first cria's first birthday. Wow, it's so hard to believe it's been a whole year since ALPHA was born. I'll never forget that day. Princess delivered right before my very eyes! I wanted to weigh him when I was at the ranch yesterday, but ended up not doing so. I'll weigh him next weekend.

Time flew at the ranch. When I arrived, Rick & Pati were cleaning the fields. I grabbed a rake and helped them finish up. We also moved some girls around between fields. Some of the little girls that had been weaned from their moms many months ago went back in the same field with mom. Some tried to nurse (and yes, my Vanilla Sundae was one of them!), but the moms weren't going for it. They all have new crias now. Carmel Sunday and Vanilla got a good neck wrestle going. Mom won when she pinned Vanilla's head on the ground. :) Overall, everyone seemed to be happy in their new surroundings and had adjusted by day's end.

It is so cool to sit and watch the main field. There are so many new crias in a variety of colors. They each seem to have their own little group of friends. Little Pati Cake hangs out with Sonny, Cher, Christopher and Kona. I'm sure Soleil (Whitney's little girl now has a name) will join them, as they are all so close in age. Wow, is she a knock-out.

After the chores were done, we celebrated 3 birthdays with almond champagne (yummy). November 3rd was Zsa Zsa and Eva's birthday, and November 4, ALPHA's. Rick, Pati and I also discussed our vision of an Alpaca "co-op", of sorts. We are talking about sharing a big piece of land with 4 families of Alpaca breeders. There are so many benefits from this type of arrangement. I am very excited about it. We're looking probably about 3 years from now. There is alot of planning that goes into such a venture and it will be fun doing the planning.

Felix got a special gift from his Aunt Jackie and Uncle Bob. A new, personalized, halter. This boy now has a wardrobe! I've posted a photo. He looks so handsome. Speaking of handsome, there is also a new photo of ALPHA that Rick took yesterday. That's my junior herdsire :)

AND, a new photo of Pati Cake at 2 weeks old. This little girl is pretty independent and wanders off from mom often. That's O.K., because she responds when mom calls. I know I'm partial because she's mine, but Pati Cake is stunning!!!! She is JET BLACK, with great conformation and long legs. I am so thrilled with her and am so proud of what Princess has produced in the last year. Let's see, she was bred to Snowmass Jericho's Conquistador (Fred) with ALPHA, again with Pati Cake. Should I breed her to him again? ABSOLUTELY! They are a match made in heaven. She'll be bred again in December.

I helped with treats, which is always the highlight of the day for me. Princess ate from my hand, as did Manda Smith.

The young boys now have new roommates. Zion and Avalanche have been moved in with Felix, ALPHA, Harrison, Aerosmith, Nicholas and Luther. I think Duke may have moved there today.
Everyone seems to be getting along well.

Next weekend I plan to go to Alpacafest West although we won't be showing any Alpacas. The "snots" are still going around and it's not worth taking the chance. Rick is volunteering and will be promoting his farm. I will be promoting the First Annual PACAribbean cruise. It will be nice to see other farm's Alpacas and maybe meet some new people. My office will be closed on Veteran's Day, so maybe I can go to the ranch and see my "kids" that day.

Crias, Crias Everywhere!

I'm getting a jump on my post this week. Normally, I seem to get them done by Wednesday. Life is great today, as I can, once again, see the hills in front of my house. They were buried in smoke from the Santiago Canyon fire most of the week. Thanks to cooler temperatures and a slight drizzle yesterday, things have improved. My heart goes out to everyone that suffered any loss in the many fires burning throughout Southern California.

When I arrived at the ranch yesterday, my little girl, Pati Cake, was running all over the place, followed by Sonny, Cher and Christopher. Yep, the youngest, my Pati Cake, was leading the pack!
Well, she was the youngest until noon. At right around 12, Whitney blessed Pati and Rick with a gorgeous, rose grey with white face, little girl. Although this was Whitney's 5th birth, Rick and Pati had never seen her deliver before. She's pretty sneaky when she goes into labor. And, once in labor, she delivers pretty quickly. But, we all witnessed this precious arrival. I know Pati and Rick are THRILLED, not only that Whitney gave them a little girl, but her coloring is stunning.
Her legs are really long, and she was having some issues with keeping them going in the correct direction. She, also, had a little trouble finding mom's teats. I don't know why, as Whitney has teats like saddle bags. This mom is loaded with milk.

We didn't do any spit testing today because of the air quality from the fires, and breeding has ceased until December 12th (so no crias are born while we are on our Pacaribbean cruise next October). I spent time in the field with my new baby girl, getting lots of pictures of her and her friends. She, Christopher, Sonny and Cher seem to be best buddies. Although, I did catch her a few times hanging out with Merlin's Majik. I have high hopes for those two when they are older. :) I think she may be kinda sweet on him already. Pati Cake isn't real keen on anyone getting too close to her. Rick was able to pick her up so I could hold her and get pictures. She is so soft, and SO BLACK!

Rick and I took Felix and Harrison for a walk, once the drizzle started and the air was better.
Felix greeted me with a little air spit :( Oh well, I guess Alpacas have good and not so good days just like we do. Once he was haltered, he did very well as did Harrison. We, then, haltered ALPHA and Nicholas and walked them. Nicholas had been haltered once before, in April, for shearing. He walked so well with Rick you would think he'd been haltered all his life. ALPHA did very well, also. We walked all around the perimeter of the fields so all the boys got up close and personal with the girls (through the fence, of course). I wonder if they remember any of the little girls when they were all together with their moms?

Next Saturday, Pati has a lady coming to teach spinning. I am so excited, I can't wait. And, next Sunday is my little boy, ALPHA's 1st birthday. Princess has made me proud with both crias she has delivered in the past year. She's done so well with "Fred" (Snowmass Jericho's Conquistador) that I plan to breed her to him once again, in December. My little girl, Vanilla Sundae, will also have her first date in December, with "Mo" (Show Me The Money). I know she's ready (heck, she's been ready since she was 6 months old - little Miss Fence Sitter during breeding!). Still aren't sure if Star is pregnant, although Rick said she's been spitting pretty good. Meg, not sure about her either.

Crias are healthy, moms are healthy and full of milk, and the sky is blue again. What more could I want?

PRINCESS DELIVERS A LITTLE GIRL!

I was really hoping to be around when Princess had her cria. Her actual due date was November 4th. I was in Washington from October 17-21. I figured since she went 339 days last year, she may deliver this week (and I got home yesterday). NOPE! Princess decided to honor Pati's birthday by delivering a gorgeous, healthy, true black, baby girl at 8:30AM on Saturday, October 20th. Am I disappointed? Are you kidding?? I have a GIRL!

Pati helped Princess deliver while Rick videoed the entire event for me. Princess had a pretty easy delivery, with Pati's help clearing the cria's shoulders to make it easier on mom. Wow, she is really black! Her dad is Snowmass Jericho's Conquistador, who is true black, as well. Immediately after the birth, Rick sent me a text message asking "what is black with no penis"?
After the text was a photo of my new baby girl. Thanks Princess. Once again, you have made me proud. Last year with ALPHA, and this year with "Princess Pati Cake". The name is in honor of Pati's birthday, and was what we called my sister when she was little. Photos were taken by Rick & Pati right after her birth. Thanks!

My plane landed at Ontario at 4:30 yesterday. I ran home, picked up a bottle of champagne, and headed for the ranch. I had to get there before dark or I wouldn't be able to see my little black girl :( I made it there by 6 and got to spend some time with Princess and Princess Pati Cake, along with Sonny (Aria's new cria). Cher, born to Penelope, was in the main field. She was born the same day as Sonny. I'll get to see her on Saturday.

It was a very bittersweet evening at the ranch. When I arrived, Rick & Pati were haltering Breeeze to bring her up to the show pen. She had been in labor all day, with no results. Dr. Thacher was called and got there about 8PM. Unfortunately, the cria was breech and didn't make it. It was a little girl. I had such mixed emotions. I was so happy about my new baby girl, yet so sad for Rick & Pati losing their little girl. If there is a happy ending to this, it's that Breeeze is O.K.

I realized that in my madness to get ready to go to Washington, I didn't write a blog last week. I had a really exciting day at the ranch. We halter trained 3 little girls to get them prepared for the show ring. We also microchipped them. I was amazed at how easy the microchipping is. Halter training wasn't too bad, except for Percy, who was a real pain. She can spit real good for a little girl! Indy and Zoe did pretty well for their first time. Although we expected to take the girls, and some boys (including ALPHA) to Alpacafest West in November, the plans have changed. There has been a nasty virus going around that has potential devastating consequences. I agree with Rick & Pati, a ribbon is not nearly as important as the health and well being of the Alpacas. So, we will miss this show. There will be more shows next year.
Rick, Pati & I walked Felix, ALPHA and Aerosmith and they all did very well. Oops, almost forgot! It was Rick's birthday and I brought lunch and a bottle of champagne to celebrate. None of the girls cooperated, so no birthday babies :(

I'm pretty excited about November 3rd. A lady that came to the ranch on Farm Days is a spinner. She is going to have a class at the ranch to teach us how to spin. How cool would it be to spin your own fiber?

As I'm writing this, I am watching the news about all the fires burning around Southern California. Thank God, All American Alpacas has not been effected. I worry so much about all the ranches in this area and hope everyone is safe. I was born and raised in California, and I believe these fires are the worst I've ever seen.

I'll be at the ranch on Saturday and promise to get lots of pictures of all the new crias.

Meg Sits, Star Spits

I guess you have figured, by now, that even though I go to the ranch every Saturday, I don't get around to writing about it until Wednesday. So, it's Wednesday, time to write....

Now that Pati has retired, I get to spend the day with both of them, which is cool. It was a beautiful day, so Blade and Fred got to come up and see some girls. Blade got spit at, but Fred had fun! Meg Ryan needed a little pacavalium to calm her down for her date. Within 30 minutes, she was lovingly looking at Fred :) Yep, he got the job done. After he had some time to recharge his batteries, Rick brought Star in the show pen with him. She spit like she meant it. I'm hoping that is a good sign and she is pregnant. We've been trying since the end of May. Star is so unpredictable. She'll spit one week and a few weeks later, she'll sit again. Silly maidens. Rick & Pati are stopping their breeding program from October 15 until December. We are all going on the First Annual PACAribbean cruise to the Western Caribbean October 18-26, 2008 and want to avoid any crias being born while we're gone. We've already got 80 people going. Why not join us? Call me at 1-888-997-8726 if you would like more details. Or, visit www. pacaribbean.com

Little Oliver is doing very well, even though his mom rejected him. How can you reject this darling little boy? I've posted his photo so you can fall in love, too. Rick & Pati have been bottle feeding him for the first month of his little life. He's gotten pretty good at stealing milk from the other moms, but still needed bottles a few times a day. WELL, on his one month birthday, he refused the bottles all day! Guinevere (Lancelot's mom) has adopted Oliver as her own, so he now has a mom to nurse from and cuddle with. Lancelot is a few months old and has gotten pretty independent, so all is great with the world.

There was an Alpaca auction televised on the internet Saturday, so we spent most of the day watching it. It's very educational to see which Alpacas are most popular and sell for the most money. Gender, genetics, color, age, and type (Huacaya or Suri) play a major part is their selling price. Wow, some herdsires went for BIG BUCKS.

Because we spent most of the day watching the auction, I didn't walk Felix, ALPHA, Aerosmith or Harrison today. I did spend some time with them in their field. Felix was his lovable self. I swear he knows my voice (or maybe he just knows his name). I got a big treat today because ALPHA actually let me rub his neck. Well, for a minute, anyway :( BIG NEWS! I filled out the registration paperwork to show ALPHA at AlpacaFest West in City of Industry the weekend of November 10-11. My baby's very first show. I'm so excited. I think he is spectacular and I hope the judge feels the same. I'm hoping, next Saturday, I can help Rick & Pati halter train the little girls that will be going to the show, as well. I promise to post lots of pictures from the show.

Princess is getting huge, grumpy and vocal. For a little while on Saturday, the baby was lopsided, so she was all pooched out on one side. If she goes 339 days, like she did last year, she should deliver on October 22nd. I think that is wishful thinking, as I'll be in Washington from the 17th to the 21st. Last year she waited until I was at the ranch to go into labor. What I wouldn't give to see her deliver again, but I think that's pretty unlikely. Her "actual" due date is November 3rd.

I helped with treats and got to be in the midst of about 40 Alpacas, big and small, making me think I was their best friend. I love it! Heaven on earth.

So Much To Share

Before I begin, I must admit, I am not smarter than a 5th grader. How many posts have you read where I've spelled the contraption you secure an Alpaca in either a shoot or a schute? Duh, I know it's spelled chute. Didn't realize it until last night when I was reading an Alpaca neonatal book. Sorry for my ignorance. I'm really a pretty smart girl, but obviously, not smarter than a 5th grader :) On to the events of last weekend:

"First" NATIONAL ALPACA FARM DAYS - September 29 -30
I was out at All American Alpacas very early Saturday morning to help get things ready for the open house. Rick & Pati had done all the heavy, hard stuff the previous week. I helped set up the store. Pati has gorgeous garments, yarn, knick knacks and the softest teddy bears you've ever felt, all made from Alpaca fiber. We weren't sure how many people, if any, would show up. There had been a fair amount of advertising in the newspapers and on television, so we were hopeful. Rick & Pati had set up 2 "easy ups" and moved a railed portable corral and a portable show pen in front of the barn. The corral was for Flash & Storm, 2 handsome, Suri, future herdsires. On Saturday, the show pen was for Felix and Aerosmith, and Sunday, Felix and ALPHA. That way people could get up close and personal with the Alpacas. Of course, Felix was a ham and let everyone pet and feed him. He especially liked children. How cool is that? Since I want to take him to children's hospitals and nursing homes, this was great training for him. He passed with flying colors. Aerosmith caught everyone's attention with his sweet, teddy bear looking face and spectacular color variation.

On Saturday, we estimate there were at least 200 people. Wow! Most were genuinely interested in the Alpaca industry, and asked very good questions. I was glad that I could talk to so many people about my experiences since owning Alpacas. Many people I talked to are still working and living in a tract house, like me. They didn't realize they can buy Alpacas and board them at a very reasonable monthly fee until they are ready to have a ranch. Or, maybe they never will have a ranch. That's O.K. too. They can board them forever, and simply use the ownership as an investment. Rick & Pati also broker Alpacas, so they can board them, breed them, and help you sell them, too. One stop shopping at All American Alpacas! Some people made appointments with Rick & Pati to come back and discuss the business in more detail. Overall, Saturday was truly a success. Especially, considering this was the first year.
Pati rewarded us with dinner and libation. :)

Sunday started out a little slower. Yet, by the end of the day, we figure there were about 150+ people that came to visit. We met a wonderful lady that LOVES to spin fiber. Pati gave her several bags of raw fiber from last year's shearing. She was thrilled. More appointments set for future visits, and some potential buyers. Another great day. ALPHA did very well in the pen with Felix, and even let a few people rub his neck. I was very proud to have my 2 boys on display for everyone to see. They did me proud.

By the time the last visitors left on Sunday, we were pretty tired. Rick & I pigged out on the sandwiches from lunch even though Pati said we shouldn't eat them, because they'd been out all day. I didn't get sick...I don't think Rick did either. Heck, Pati, they were great sandwiches :)
Wash them down with a beer and all's well with the world. By the end of the evening, I know we were all exhausted, sore, but grateful for the experience.

Back to Felix. A few weeks ago, I ordered Felix a customized halter with his name embroidered on the nose, with matching lead. I ordered turquoise halter, royal blue overlay and his name embroidered in white. After I ordered it, I realized the production time far exceeded Farm Days last weekend. WELL, last Tuesday, to my surprise, the halter and lead were delivered. So, Felix got to wear his very own halter for Farm Days. The company that made the halter asked me for a photo and posted it on their website with Felix as a model for Alpaca halters. Thanks, Cathy, that was very sweet of you. Now, my Felix is a CyberCelebrity. I've posted his "model photo" here.

Update: Received the results from Meg Ryan's blood test. Unfortunately, she is not pregnant yet. That was bad news for me, but good news for Snowmass Jericho's Conquistador ("Fred") because that means he gets another date. I'm counting on you, Fred.

Update: We go on "baby watch" for Princess tomorrow, October 4th. Her actual due date is November 4, but she could deliver anytime between now and then. Last year she went 339 days. If she does the same this year, she may deliver in a few weeks. I want to think pink, but I'd rather think healthy with great fiber and conformation. This cria will be a full sister or brother to ALPHA.

A Weekend Of New Experiences

Big apologies, once again, for not writing sooner. I was at the ranch last Saturday. Since then I've been crazy busy and stressed to the max. Finally, I'm slowing down enough to put two thoughts together.

It's hard to believe it rained on Saturday and I wore a sweatshirt all day. A few weeks ago, it was 110! Crazy. The Alpacas don't seem to mind the rain at all. The crias enjoy playing in drizzle, but head for the covered feeders (and mom) when it starts pouring.

Little did I know that Rick had planned to trim teeth today! Wow, that was a first for me. We brought Merlin up from Boy's Town and put him in the schute. He is such a good boy. Rick has an apparatus that is amazing. There is a metal thick plate type thingy that goes in the mouth (once you get the mouth open, that is), and someone (me) holds the head real still while Rick hits the button and POOF, the teeth are trimmed. The guard on the apparatus keeps you from going down too far. I think they are ground. At least that's what is smelled like. Smelled like a dentist's office. Plus, I didn't see any teeth pieces flying around anywhere :) It's really fast and didn't seem to both Merlin too much.

THEN, we took Merlin back and got Ambush. He's pretty hyper so Rick wanted to give him a little Pacavalium to calm him down a little before his teeth got trimmed. I got to give Ambush his shot! Wow, another first. And, of course, there is the textbook way to give a shot; then there is the "Rick way". To make sure you don't stick the needle in the animal too far, Rick cuts a piece from the syringe needle plastic cover. The remainder of the cover serves as a guard. Only a small part of the needle is exposed, therefore, you can't stick it in the animal too far. How clever is that? I held Ambush's lead pretty close to me, wrapped my left arm around his neck, put my right arm over his shoulders and gave him the shot near the right shoulder. We waited about 30 minutes, and escorted him into the schute. Once we got him all secured, Rick noticed Ambush's fighting teeth have grown back. So, until he can trim them, Ambush got a reprieve on having his front teeth trimmed.

Little Oliver is still a bottle baby. It's so sad. He is such a cutie pie, but can't seem to quite get the milk thief down real good. Rick said if a mom delivers a cria soon, after a 12 hour period, he could rub the new mom's placenta on Oliver and she will think he's her cria too. You have to wait at least 12 hours because you want the new cria to nurse that long to obtain the collostrum they need for their immune system. After that, it would be O.K. for mom to nurse her cria as well as her "adopted", Oliver. The next mom to deliver is Carmel Sunday and she has lots and lots of milk, and is a super mom. She's my Vanilla Sundae's mom.

A couple times the rain really came down hard, but for a very short period of time. It was pretty cloudy most of the day, with occasional peaks from the sun. I only walked Felix. He was his wonderful self, until he saw his mom! I walked him all through the "alley" around all the fields of girls and crias. He was having a good time sniffing the little girls as he walked by. Then, we got to the North Field, where his mom is with her cria. I think I've mentioned before she has "issues", so I won't go in a field with her. Well, Felix stopped at the fence and she came running over. Felix started clucking and lifting his tail. I thought it was so sweet that he seemed to recognize his mom. While nose to nose with him, she spit right in his face! That, clearly, upset him. Heck, it would upset me too. He was very hard to walk from that point until we reached his field. There was never a doubt in my mind that these wonderful creatures have feelings, emotions and a sensitive soul. This event just reinforced my feelings.

Guess what happens when you walk through a field of Alpacas right after it rains? If you are looking at Alpacas instead of where you are walking, you'll think you've slid in to first base!
Oh yeh, those little pellets that look like bunny poo get pretty slippery in the rain. I was walking from one field to the next and slid about 3 feet down the hill, laughing all the way. As if that wasn't bad enough, Rick was walking in the gate and saw the whole silly thing. Is I graceful? I guess that depends of what your definition of "is" "is".

Dr. Thacher was going to come out and ultrasound Meg and some of the other girls. She came out today and Meg's ultrasound was inconclusive. Apparently, Dr. Thacher could see some amniotic fluid, but couldn't do a more detailed ultrasound. She drew blood and we should have the results by next Monday. I kinda think she is by the way she acts around the boys. No, not spitting, just being her goofy self. I just love her personality. And, if she isn't pregnant, we won't be able to breed her again until mid December. Because of the cruise we are going on next October, Rick & Pati have decided to suspend the breeding program from October 1 until December 15. Our cruise is from October 18-26, 2008. They really don't want crias born while they are gone. If Star isn't already pregnant, that will impact her breeding as well. It was too soon to ultrasound Star today. She did spit off pretty good the last time she was tested. I'll just keep my fingers crossed.

I didn't take any photos today. When we weren't busy doing something with the animals, Rick was helping me set up my new laptop. I'm still adjusting to not only a new computer, but Windows Vista. I'm sure it will all make sense soon.

I helped with treats before I left. Princess will still eat from my hand. Manda Smith insists on eating out of the bucket, with Aria is right behind her. I love helping with treats as there is nothing better than being closely surrounded by dozens of wonderful Alpaca moms and crias.

Meg Is Signed, Sealed & Delivered

I was at the ranch last Sunday, all day. Rick said he had something for me to do that I had never done before, but it was a surprise. First I thought maybe we were going to trim teeth, then I thought maybe I was going to scoop poop, but, NOPE. Rick showed me how to transfer an Alpaca after a sale, online. He let me do all the typing and hit the "send" button. Meg Ryan is now signed, sealed, delivered; baby you're mine :) All my Alpacas are very special and dear to me, but Meg has a personality all her own and she is so much fun to watch. A few weeks ago, I saw her, at full pronk, racing around from one field to another, all by herself. What a magnificent sight. Regal.

We tried to ultrasound Meg again. This time we didn't put her in the shoot. I didn't have much trouble haltering her and short tying her up against the fence. I leaned my body into her, securing her against the fence. Rick was able to goop her up for the ultrasound with no problem. The machine still couldn't get contact. Rick is going to have it done by the Dr. Thacher the next time she comes out. I think she's pregnant. During the ultrasound attempt, Star stood on the other side of the fence up close where Meg could see her. There is an amazing bond there, that is really pretty cool.

We did quite a bit of breeding and spit testing. Blade and Fred got to have some fun. Blade is so loud, and Fred is a squeaker. The weather was perfect for dating.

Little Oliver is still just as cute as can be. I am so upset. I had some darling photos of him I took last weekend, and I THOUGHT I had downloaded them on my computer. So, I erased them from the camera. Well, I didn't download them. Grrrrrr! I'll take more next weekend. He is still a bottle baby, with feedings every 3 hours. Rick took a photo of me feeding him, but I can't seem to get it on to this site. I'll enlist Rick's help on Saturday. Oliver is making friends and appears to be a well adjusted 2 week old cria. He's gaining weight well and is very playful. I just wish (as I'm sure Pati and Rick do also) that he could learn how to be a good milk thief. There are moms in the field that would let him nurse, he just doesn't have the whole process down very well. Hopefully he will learn from the other crias, as several are nursing in the main field.
He, DJ and wild boy Kona seem to hang out together. Kona is a nut. He likes to jump up in the air, flip sideways and plow into the side of an adult. Kinda like a body slam. Oh, those little boys.

I helped Rick hold Harrison to draw some blood from his tail for DNA to register him. Rick haltered him today, for the first time since he was escorted to Boy's Town several months ago.
He jumped up in the air a little, then walked like he'd been doing it all his life. He was such a good boy. Felix walked with him, although he didn't need an escort. Most of the time, Harrison was leading. Felix is still my love bug. He's amazing and I love him so much. He may have his first "outing" to visit a club in Sun City, in December.

I walked ALPHA alone today. He's walked alone before, once or twice. He was great. It takes a little to get close enough to get the halter on him, but then, he's fine. We walked all around, between boulders, on concrete, on gravel, into the garage, the shed, the patio and he was fantastic. It's hard to believe he will be a year old November 4th.

Princess is HUGE. I don't know how her little legs hold her up. She's not a very big girl to begin with. I expect she will deliver sometime in late October. I'll be in Washington from October 17-21, so I hope, hope, hope she'll wait until I get back. But, if not, I know Rick will call and send me pictures. I love the close up I've posted of her. Today, she ate hay, tree branches, then treats from my hand. How cool is that????? She's a special girl and a super mom. Boy? Girl? Color? The suspense is killing me. It won't be long....

Rick had the little girls from center field in the nursery. A few girls are ready for their "dates".
Vanilla Sundae is in that field and came up with the herd. Vanilla cushed at the gate, watching the breeding, and looking like she wanted to raise her hoof and go "me next". I don't think we'll have any problem at all with her when the times comes. She's such a pretty, sweet little girl. Her mom, Carmel Sunday, is due on Rick's birthday, in a few weeks.

It was a great day at the ranch. Beautiful weather, nice breeze, new experiences and lots and lots of Alpacas to enjoy.

Last Thursday, I met Rick & Pati at the L.A. County Fair. We had a great time, especially hanging out with the animals. Lots of darling little pigs (and a mom delivering), cows, sheep, goats (including angora goats - oh my goodness, are they cool), a camel, and even one llama and one alpaca. Neither looked like they had ever been shorn. At least our weather has cooled off so it wasn't as bad as it could have been. Saw the Budweiser Clydesdales. Watched a milking demonstration, ate, had a few beers and did some shopping. I think Rick's favorite thing was the corn dogs (yes, I meant that to be plural).

Meg Ryan Joins My Family!

Yesterday, I was able to buy Meg Ryan. It took well over a month to get her registered because it required the owners of her dam and sire to sign off on some paperwork. Rick had to track them down, then get the necessary paperwork to them and on to the Alpaca Registry. Thank you, Rick, for all your hard work to make it happen. Meg's 3rd birthday was September 6th, so I guess you could say she got a new family for her birthday. Actually, I am the one that got the gift.

The weather yesterday was much better. At least 15 degrees cooler than last weekend. It was perfect for spit testing, breeding and walking the boys. Star has been such a challenge, and so hard to read. Yet, today she spit really good at Fred. The best spit yet! We hope that's a good sign and maybe, finally, she's pregnant. We really think Meg is pregnant because of her behavior around males. She doesn't spit. She stands very erect, sideways, and raises her tail. Rick tried to ultrasound her while I was there, but had a problem getting a good contact. You can't take Meg or Star anywhere without the other. While Meg was in the shoot for her ultrasound, Star stood right beside her. That's what girlfriends are for, moral support.

Fred and Blade both had "dates" with the girls today. While Blade was having fun with Malea, her cria, Apollo (2 months old) decided it was time to practice being a herdsire. Is this photo the best?

No babies were born while I was there, but there were 2 crias born last week. "Kona", a male suri. "Oliver", a male huacaya. They are both cute as can be. Oliver's mom is a maiden and apparently doesn't know what to do and has rejected him. Rick & Pati are bottle feeding him, with hopes one or more of the other moms will be a surrogate. Rick said this is the first time they've had such a situation. So, for now, he is Mr. Mom.

It was a nice day to walk the boys. Felix and Aerosmith took a walk together. Aerosmith is doing really good, considering it was only his second time on a halter. Nothing has changed...Felix is SUPER. I took ALPHA for a walk by himself and he did great. While he was out, Rick clipped his toenails. Pretty amazing that a 10 months old needs their toenails clipped already. He's been amazing since the beginning, so I'm not surprised. He was a really good boy while he got his pedicure.

Vanilla Sundae is looking like an adult. Rick said she's acting like an adult, too. I'm anxious to breed her in December. Princess is HUGE. Although her "official" due date is November 4, she will probably deliver in October. I'm really hoping she has a little girl this year. But, if she gives me another ALPHA, I sure won't be disappointed.

A BLAZING Hot Day At The Ranch

At 11AM, it was over 100 degrees and climbed to 106. YIKES! Standing in the sun was unbearable. The sprinklers were going on every hour for the girls and the crias. I belly hosed the boys. Even those that normally don't like to be belly hosed were standing it line for the spray.
Normally, brand new crias don't come near the hose, but bellied up to it for Rick to soak them in the nursery. A brand new cria in the nursery? Yep.

Paloma, affectionally known as "Precious Angel" delivered an estimated 18 pound girl on Saturday. Figures. I normally go to the ranch on Saturday, but had a 40th anniversary party for my parents on Saturday, so didn't go to the ranch until Sunday. Paloma has "behavioral issues" resulting from her care (or lack of) at another ranch. She is very protective of her cria and doesn't want anyone near it. Well, Rick has to carry the cria from the North Field to the nursery, and weigh it on the way. Because of her temperament, Rick had to enlist the help of his neighbor, Scott, to cause a distraction for mom so he could move the cria to the nursery. According to Rick, it was like playing football. Cria under his arm, he ran from the North Field to the nursery, being chased by Paloma the whole way. That is why the cria's weight is an estimate. There was no stopping at the scale enroute. She is a healthy girl, sort of a dark brown right now, but Rick thinks she will probably end up bay black. Armana and DJ (her cria) volunteered to be companions in the nursery until Paloma and cria can go back with the herd today.

Little DJ (short for Deja Vu) took a nasty spill and really skinned up his nose. He is so sweet, though, it's not hard to put Neosporin on it. He still acts like a puppy and follows Rick around.
It was pretty comfortable in the nursery because of the trees, so he was kicking up his heels and running around, and was so cute to watch.

Because of the heat, we didn't do much of anything except try to keep everyone cool and comfortable. Definately too hot for spit testing, breeding or even walking Felix, ALPHA and Aerosmith. Athena is now elongated, and will probably have her cria today (figures). She's a maiden and has been very uncomfortable for a few weeks.

I did spend some time with my boys. In spite of the heat, Felix let me love all over him. ALPHA is still a little standoffish, but that's O.K. They each will have their own rolls when they get older (ALPHA as a herdsire, Felix as a therapy animal, so he needs to be social). ALPHA has never been interested in belly hosing until today. He let me soak him good!

Vanilla Sundae is growing and acting like an adult. She should be ready to breed to Mo (Show Me The Money) in December. Star and Meg Ryan are still joined at the hip. Princess' belly is getting bigger and bigger. It won't be long before I have a new cria - late October, early November. I can't wait!!

An Eventful Week At The Ranch

Yep, I was at the ranch last Saturday and Armana had her cria on Sunday. Figures. She had a darling little boy whose name is Deja Vu (DJ for short). Why? Because he has similar markings of his half brother and full sister. A few white spots on his face and white on his front legs up to his knees. He is so cute! And, he follows Rick around the ranch like a puppy.

On Tuesday, Percy's birthday, mom Dewdrop gave her the best present. A baby sister! She's all black and cute as a button. Her name is Oda Mae Brown. Who is Oda Mae Brown? The character Whoopie Goldberg played in the movie "Ghost". Dad is Merlin.

THEN...yesterday, while I was at the ranch, Kir Royale gave birth to a perfect 17.1 pound little girl. She was very dilated when I got to the ranch, and within an hour, she was delivering. It was a perfect, uneventful birth. The little girl had her legs crossed a bit, so Rick helped mom finish up the delivery to make it easier. Immediately, this little cria was active, cushing, rolling and trying to stand. She has some pretty long legs, so it took her awhile to get them all going in the same direction. Although she doesn't belong to me, she is a "relative". Kir Royale is Carmel Sunday's daughter. Carmel Sunday is my girl Vanilla Sundae's mom. Vivace is the new cria's dad. Vivace is Vanilla's dad. So, this new little girl is Vanilla's niece (on mom's side) and her half sister (on dad's side). This sounds like a "you know you're a red-neck" joke, doesn't it?

Since it wasn't as hot as it had been, Fred had another date with Star. Nope, Star is not pregnant yet :( Rick gave her a shot of pacarelaxer (no, that's not the real name), waited 30 minutes, then brought Fred in for his date. Star was very cooperative and calm. After 30 minutes or so (Go Fred!), mission accomplished. Well, we'll see what she does in the next few weeks. Hopefully, mission accomplished. Meg Ryan might be pregnant. Although she doesn't spit at a male, she turns sideways, stands very tall, and raises her tail. That's the "get away from me" stance. Rick said soon he can ultrasound Meg to make sure.

Since it was pretty humid, I belly hosed the boys to cool them off. As the afternoon progressed, a nice breeze came up, so Rick and I walked ALPHA and Felix around the ranch. They both did great. I practiced having ALPHA stand straight, which he will need to do when he's shown at AlpacaFest West in November. He is doing great. Felix stopped at every weed, tree, and wherever there was a piece of hay laying on the ground. He is such a piggy.

Here is a photo of Kir Royale's new cria. I tried getting photos of DJ and Oda Mae, but they didn't come out very good. I'll try again next weekend. I've also posted a photo of Rick and Kir's cria.

Thanks, Kir, you made my day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Percy, Star & Harrison!!

August 21st is a red letter day at All American Alpacas, as Percy will celebrate her first birthday. You may wonder why her 1st birthday is more exciting than Harrison's 1st birthday, or Star's 2nd birthday. I've written previously about Percy, who was born at day 291, the shortest gestation of a cria to survive. Rick & Pati found her in the north field early in the morning on August 21, 2006. She was very small, gray, lifeless and had no temperature. After immersing her in warm water, they were able to detect a temperature. She was too small and too weak to nurse, let alone stand. Aside from needing plasma and antibiotics, she also needed to be tube fed for several days. Because her body temperature wouldn't auto-regulate in the sun, she was only able to stay in the nursery with mom, Dewdrop, for short periods of time. Since last summer was so brutally hot, Percy spent most of her early days in the house on a sheep skin pillow. So she wouldn't go potty and then lay in it, she also wore teensy, tiny, baby diapers. As she grew stronger and could suck, she was then bottle fed until she was able to nurse. I think Rick said she weighed about 7 pounds when he found her. The average weight of a newborn cria is about 14 to 20 pounds. The odds were certainly against this little girl, but with the love, knowledge, dedication and perseverance of Rick & Pati, on Tuesday she will celebrate her first birthday. You've probably figured out that Percy is short for "Perseverance", her legal name. After all she's been through, you would not know it, as she is a healthy, vibrant, playful little girl that truly believes she is "Miss Thing" in the field. She is. So, a very Happy Birthday to the miracle cria, ALLAA Perseverance 291!

In the midst of trying to save Percy, Harrison was born. His was an uneventful birth, which was a blessing as Rick & Pati sure had their hands full with Percy. Today, Harrison is a good looking potential future herdsire who lives with my boys ALPHA and Felix (as well as Nicholas, Luther and Aerosmith). Harrison is a sweetheart and very curious when you walk in his field. Happy Birthday, Harrison!

Last but not least, my girl, Star, will celebrate her 2nd birthday on Tuesday. I think it's time for her to be pregnant :) I am so happy to have Star in my "herd" as she is a beautiful girl and really sweet. I just know she'll have spectacular babies. Maybe Fred has a special birthday present for her :) Happy Birthday, Star!

I spent all day at the ranch yesterday. Although we expected babies last weekend, there were none born, nor were there any born this week. I just knew we would see "nose and toes" yesterday. Athena looked very uncomfortable. Armana was showing physical signs of impending birth (and will probably deliver today...figures!). Paloma looks like she swallowed the Goodyear Blimp. Kalea is spending too much time at the poop pile. Dewdrop, on the other hand, didn't act like she was quite ready. I think she's waiting to deliver her cria on her daughter Percy's birthday. Wouldn't that be something.

It was really too hot yesterday to do any breeding or spit testing. It was also too hot to walk Felix, ALPHA and Aerosmith. Twice, I belly hosed the boys. The girls were O.K., because the sprinklers were going on about every hour or so (which they LOVE). I spent some time with the boys, just hanging out with them. Felix continues to be the love bug, BUT, when I walked up to him at the feeder, started rubbing his neck and leaned over to kiss his cute little nose, he turned and spit at me! Not the yukky, disgusting, smelly spit, but a little air spit with some wet hay in it. What was that all about? He clearly wasn't letting me know to leave him alone, as he stood there and let me put my hands all over him. Maybe he was just practicing. ALPHA, on the other hand, still isn't keen on me walking right up to him, but that's O.K. I realize that Felix has an exceptional personality which is why he will be so good as a therapy animal. You can tell all the boys in this field are buddies, which is cool.

Meg Ryan's registration is almost complete. Once it is, I will be able to buy her. We think she might be pregnant, but aren't certain yet.

I helped with treats just before I left. What could be better than being surrounded by Alpacas that are all very happy to see you carrying the famous blue bucket? Sometimes, giving treats also gives you the opportunity to touch them and feel their fiber. Of course, I love that Princess and Star will eat from my hand. Princess looks like she's going to explode. Her belly is really growing and she's got about 2 1/2 months to go. Oh, the anticipation!

Percy, Harrison, and Star....I will be thinking of you on Tuesday and wishing you all a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Star Sits AGAIN!

You may remember I titled a previous blog "Star Sits on May 31", which was a red letter day. After several attempts to introduce her to Fred (and Mo), she finally figured out what to do and sat for Fred. I was so excited to think she may be pregnant. During spit testings, sometime she would spit, sometime she would sit. Well, yesterday she sat again, for awhile. Fred tried a few times and appeared to be successful, but who knows. This maiden is presenting a real challenge in the breeding department. Rick is going to try a little pacaphrodisiac (may be spelled wrong, but you know what I mean) today with hopes that will do the trick.

Although there was every indication that 3 girls may deliver their crias while I was at the ranch, NOPE, no babies. Felix's mom is one of them and she looks like she is ready to pop. She's not a very friendly girl when she is pregnant, but now let's Rick rub her neck. Sounds like hormone changes related to impending birth. Percy's mom, Dewdrop, is also due any day, as is Kalea. Watch, I was at the ranch yesterday and all 3 will have their babies today.

It was a nice day with a beautiful breeze. All the Alpacas (with the exception of the very pregnant ones) seemed very content. Many of them hung out in the nursery all day, which was cool as we can watch them from the patio. Majik and Apollo were neck wrestling, Sweety was annoying the moms, and little Patron Gold spend most of the day laying in the sun. My girl, Princess (ALPHA's mom) spent almost all day in the nursery and hardly took a breath between bites of hay. That's O.K., Princess, you go ahead and pig out as the baby is your tummy needs it.
Her tummy is getting big, as the cria now goes into full growing mode for the last few months of her pregnancy.

Aerosmith experienced his Big Adventure today. He's only been on a halter once, and that was to move to Boy's Town. He needs to get used to the halter, as he will be going to a show in November. Rick haltered Aerosmith (without much resistance), and I haltered Felix (who just stands at the feeder now and let's me) and we took the two of them for a walk. Aerosmith had his brakes on for a minute, but then settled down and walked really well for his first time. We walked all around the ranch and down to the main field to see the girls, Manda Smith (his mom) included. Manda spotted him, clucked a few times, and walked closer to the fence (although not right up to the fence). There was no doubt she knew Aerosmith is her boy.
Felix did very well walking all over the place and not pulling the lead. He is becoming quite the "huggable investment" and I am so proud of him.

ALPHA also had a new adventure today. I walked him, by himself, for the first time. He's used to walking with Felix. He needs to be cornered in order to halter him, but does so with no resistance. With very little encouragement, he walked out of the alley, up the hill and all around the ranch. We stopped at the nursery so he could see mom, Princess. She came to the fence to see him and they touched noses and clucked. How cute! Yep, she knows that's her boy. He also walked on to the patio and in to the garage with no problem. We had a chance to look at his spots, that appear to be getting a little larger (very little). Rick said it may not be they are getting bigger, but the silver fiber is growing faster than the brown, which is a good thing. We still don't know what color he will be classified in shows. I guess we need to wait until November (AlpacaFest West) to see what he looks like then. I am so proud of my little boy. He is such a handsome guy; great conformation, bite, teeth, fiber, color, disposition and properly maturing testicles. That's very important for a junior herdsire :). Although I am hoping Princess has a little girl this year, if she has a boy like ALPHA I won't be disappointed.

Meg Ryan's registration should be completed very soon. Then, I can buy her. I am looking forward to adding her to the "herd". She has a unique personality and is fun to watch because she does goofy things. Rick put Meg in the show pen with Fred and she stood tall, sideways, and raised her tail. She didn't spit, but made it very clear she wanted no part of him. Maybe she's pregnant????? She and Star remain best buddies and if you see one, the other isn't far behind.

I spent some time in the center field with Vanilla Sundae. She seems to know who I am now. Although she doesn't walk right up to me, she does walk "near" me and appears to listen when I talk to her. She seems to be very happy being one of the big girls among recently weaned youngsters. She's got her "childhood" friends with her; Zoe (who is growing like a weed), Zsa Zsa, Ava, Gale, and the most famous girl on the ranch (step aside Paris Hilton), Percy! Percy may be going to the show in November, with Zoe and ALPHA, for "Get of Sire". That would be so cool to win as it shows the quality of cria Fred produces. He's an exceptional sire and makes really nice babies.

Yes, another great day at the ranch....

Happy Birthday Felix!

Actually, Felix's 1st birthday is Tuesday, August 7th. I am so proud of him, and so grateful that Pati and Rick gave him to me. After a little spell of not being very friendly or cooperative, he is better than ever. Although most Alpacas have sweet dispositions, they don't care much for being handled. Not my Felix! Again, yesterday, he let me rub him all over and gave me lots of clucking kisses. He walked very well around the ranch, but must stop and eat every piece of hay on the ground, every weed, and nibble on every tree.

Rick and I walked Felix and ALPHA all around the ranch, down into the shed (and in to some small spaces), around and through the big boulders in the front, through the garage, and on to the patio. They both did great. You can tell there is a bond between them, which is so cool as they will be together for a long time to come. We put them in the show pen for awhile, to get them used to new places. There was a branch from one of the Pepper trees in there (which Felix loves, but ALPHA had never experienced before). ALPHA picked up the branch and started eating it. Felix wanted ALPHA to share, which made a cute photo (posted above). We weighed them today. Felix 90.5 pounds, ALPHA 72.6 pounds. ALPHA is 3 months younger than Felix.
Felix is getting very tall, which seems to be normal for a gelding. ALPHA is pretty good about letting you touch him and check his fiber. His spots haven't changed at all. Right now we think he would be considered an Appaloosa in the show ring. He has about 8 silver spots, quite small. Show rules dictate that he has to have at least 6 spots, visible to the naked eye, to be considered Appaloosa. Time will tell. Rick said he'll need to be color checked at his first show to determine what color he is considered "officially". His first show will be in November. No telling what may happen in the next 3 months.

I spent some time in the fields with the moms, soon to be moms, and the crias. Little Patron Gold gets cuter and cuter every week. He actually let me get a hold of him and feel his fiber. He is SO SOFT. He's a pretty personable little guy. He'll walk up pretty close to you or will follow you around the field. Miss Paris Hilton is a tease. She'll stand fairly close and look at you with those big brown eyes. Try to get closer, she takes off. Majik and Lancelot are best buddies and love to neck wrestle. Apollo's fiber is beautiful. Sweety is still a trouble maker (and acts like Patron's big sister). Princess is really starting to look pregnant. She is due in less than 90 days. Her actual due date is November 3rd. But, she went 339 days with ALPHA, so based on that, she may deliver in late October. I'll be in Washington from October 17 to 21, so I hope she waits until I get back. As much as I'd like her to have a little girl this year, if she had another boy like ALPHA, I won't be disappointed. The suspense is killing me. What gender? What color? It still amazes me that you can't base color of cria on the colors of dam and sire. Alpacas are full of surprises. I've started thinking of names, but won't really decide until the cria is born.

Vanilla Sundae is doing great and growing. She's in the center field with mostly youngsters that have been her buddies since they were little. She's still a little too young to be bred, so we'll wait until Mo gets back in the Fall and hopefully breed her in December.

Still don't know if Star and Meg Ryan are pregnant. Rick says they are both very hard to read. He walked Fred by the main field fence and Meg came running up to see him (Star wasn't far behind). So, Rick walked Fred into the "alley" where Meg and Star were, and Meg stood tall and sideways with her tail in the air. Rick said that means "stay away from me". Star did the same thing. I hope that's a good sign. It's still too early to ultrasound them. Time will tell.

Usually, several Alpacas will come up to the nursery during the day and hang out. It's fun to sit on the patio and watch them. Today, all but a few decided to stay in the main field. Was it something we said? :( Or, maybe it was because it was a nice day, with a great breeze, and they just enjoyed sun bathing.

I helped with treats again today. Meg had her head in the bucket, as did, of course, Manda Smith. As hard as I try, I can't get any of the youngsters to eat out of my hand. Princess will. Now, Star eats from my hand, too. How cool is that? Treat time is a great opportunity for Rick to put his hands on the crias and check their fiber for quality and color underneath. Majik is silver underneath the rose gray outercoat.

I can't truly express how much I look forward to going out to the ranch every weekend. I love spending time with all the Alpacas. I may only be "mom" to 5 (soon 6), but I'm "auntie" to all the rest. I love them as if they were my own. And, I am so grateful for all the time Pati and Rick spend with me, teaching me everything I need to know to prepare for the time when I have my own ranch. We have talked about a cooperative ranch, where a few owners would live on the same property and collectively care for the herd. For me, that would be ideal.

Felix & ALPHA's Big Adventure

I went to the ranch early on Saturday. Rick left very early to pick up 6 Alpacas and a Llama in Crestline, Pati had to go to work, and they are on baby watch for Lucy and Dewdrop. So, I sort of filled in the gap by being there so the ladies wouldn't be alone. Before Pati left for work, I went down to Boy's Town to see all "the guys". Flash & Storm have been moved in with Merlin & Ambush. That is to make room for a herdsire and companion Rick is bringing back today. I spent a little time with ALPHA and Felix. Oh my goodness, Felix is not only back to his sweet self, but even better. He lets me rub his neck for the longest time, plus I can rub his back, run my hands down his legs, his chest, his belly and his ears. He clucked once or twice when I kissed him. I am so happy. I was a little worried, thinking perhaps the "procedure" he had a few months ago had changed his personality. ALPHA isn't as friendly, but once you can get close enough to lightly touch the front of his neck, he's yours. He'll stand very still and let you inspect his fiber, check his teeth, rub his neck, and put on a halter. They both are a little slow starting their walks, but by the time we get them past Boy's Town and up the hill, they are super. Today, they had a BIG adventure. More about that later...

Rick arrived about 10AM with his big, super duper, bitchin' trailer, full of Alpacas (and yes, a Llama, too). There were 2 pregnant dams (each with a cria), 1 herdsire, 1 companion, and a cool Llama "KoKo". I helped unload them and take the dams/crias/Llama to the show pen for a brief "inspection & health check" before they were allowed to join the herd. They have excellent health records and all passed the Rick Test with flying colors. In no time, they were walking down the hill to meet their new friends. The herdsire and companion went in with Ares and Nicholas. That didn't work out real well, so Nicholas is now in with Felix, ALPHA, Aerosmith, Luther and Harrison. The herdsires in Boy's Town got pretty rambunctious (spelling?) when the new herdsire arrived "on their turf". They acted up for awhile, with very puffed chests and tall, strong stature. Boys will be boys :)

O.K., back to Felix & ALPHA Big Adventure. Rick kept the super, duper, awesome, bitchin' trailer hooked up to the truck so the trailer was low enough for Alpacas to step in to. We took Felix & ALPHA and encouraged them (yeah, encouraged, Rick picked up their front feet and put them in the trailer) to get in the trailer. There was water and fresh hay in there, and they were pretty O.K. with it. No humming. Just curiosity. Rick closed the chain link back gate and left the trailer door open. We left them and went back to the patio for awhile. About 30 minutes later, we went and got them. They were perfectly fine. Eating hay, nosing around, looking out the windows...no big deal. That is so cool, as both of them will be riding in trailers in the future. ALPHA going to shows, and Felix visiting nursing homes/schools/charities and maybe even walking in a few parades. The photo at the top of the page has a caption "if you're happy and you know it, shake your head" (I know you know the tune). Yep, that's my Felix.

Oh, wow, I almost forgot my "baby watch" 45 minutes (between Pati leaving and Rick arriving). I put my cell phone in my back pocket (programmed for Rick & Pati), and went and sat outside the fence by the North field. I spent 45 minutes watching Lucy and Dewdrop's rear ends. Dewdrop really concerned me because she was cushed with her head down and wasn't chewing her cud. Then, she got up and moved to the fence corner by the water bucket, with her butt to the fence. She looked real uncomfortable. Lucy wasn't doing anything that appeared abnormal.
No babies today.

I hung out with "the kids" (oh, you should see little Patron Gold - what a cutie pie!) and watched Sweety play big sister to Patron, and Lancelot and Majik neck wrestle. I got a photo of Paris Hilton after a roll in the hay. But, I decided not to post that photo. I may save it to sell on Ebay.

We still aren't sure if Star or Meg Ryan are pregnant. Soon, Rick will ultrasound them. I sure hope they are. I haven't purchased Meg Ryan yet, but will very soon. The more I see her, the more I want her. When the new Alpacas arrived Saturday and were released to the main field, Meg Ryan came to greet them. She, then, took off in a full pronk (which I'd never seen before), across the main field, into the center field, and back around. It was really beautiful to see. I've posted a photo of her (2nd from top).

I got to help with treats today. Yep, Manda Smith with her head in the bucket, and Princess eating out of my hand. BUT, after treats, Manda Smith let me rub her neck and massage her back. I guess she liked it because she dropped to the ground to get reallllll comfortable. KoKo, the new Llama, ate from my hand. She's really cool. And, what a surprise! Star ate treats from my hand too. Vanilla would rather eat off the ground than come near my hand, and Meg just kind of looks at me and walks away. I did kinda sneak up on Percy and touched her hip :) That's the only way you can touch Miss Cheerleader, is to try to sneak up on her. Percy will be 1 year old August 21st. Considering she is the shortest gestation Alpaca cria to have ever survived (291 days), that is quite a feat. She thinks she is "Miss Thing" (and she is).

Yes, another great day at the ranch..

Photo Worth A Million Bucks

I know we all must have heard Paris Hilton would not eat while she was in custody. Why? Because she was afraid someone would snap a photo of her on the potty. Well, you saw it here first! An actual, untouched, original photo of Paris Hilton going potty on Sunday, July 22, 2007 at All American Alpacas in Murrieta, CA. Sorry, this photo is not for sale at any price.... ;)

Another great day at the ranch. Blade and Fred got to hang out with some pretty girls and I believe a good time was had by all. The weather was beautiful...a little overcast with a nice breeze. Perfect for breeding.

I've talked about buying Meg Ryan, and I will be very soon. She needs to be registered first. In order to register an Alpaca, one must submit a blood sample for DNA testing. This determines that the sire and dam are truly the sire and dam. When they are first born, the vet takes a sample of blood from their neck which is used for IGg testing and the DNA sample. In adult Alpacas, the blood is drawn from a vein under the tail. Ouch! Bless Rick's heart...he decided to draw the blood from Meg while I was there Saturday. She needed to be put in the "chute" (a large contraption that totally immobilizes the Alpaca, yet it doesn't appear to be too uncomfortable). Yet, I'm sure it's pretty scarey for the Alpaca, even if it doesn't hurt. I kept trying to soothe Meg telling her what a good girl she was, and it would be over soon. Duh! Rick reminded me. She's deaf. Oh well, hopefully she picked up my "vibes". It didn't take long for Rick to get the drop of blood he needed for the DNA card. He untied Meg and she went right back to the nursery and continued eating. I'm glad she didn't seem to be phased much by the experience.

I went out to the fields to see all the crias. It is so cool to see so many little ones running around again. There weren't too many in January and February. But boy, there is a gaggle of them now! All shapes, sizes, colors and personalities. Sweety is still the trouble maker, and she seems to have a special fondness for the newest boy "Patron Gold". Yes, he's the little guy that was born last Sunday and Rick needed to give him Caro syrup, then Colostrum, then plasma, then bottle feeding...He's stronger now, nursing, and getting lessons from Sweety on how to be a trouble maker. Merlin's Majik is looking more and more spectacular every day. Vanilla Sundae seems to enjoy being in the center field with youngsters. Probably because she is one of the oldest in that field (a whopping year old now), which must give her some clout :)

Earlier in the day, I had gone down to Boy's Town to visit with the boys, and see my ALPHA and Felix. What a difference in Felix! Last weekend he was a love bug and I was so happy to think my ol' Felix was back. He did the same thing today. He was loving and easy to halter and walk all over the ranch. ALPHA is amazing too. With just a touch to the front of his neck, he stands and let's you put on his halter. Or, you can touch his neck and he'll stand perfectly still and let Rick check his fiber. I am so proud of both of them. They seem to have bonded very nicely and get along very well. Rick decided to give them a real experience and we walked them outside the fence line and down the open road. They were super. We still don't know what is going to happen with the spots that have appeared on ALPHA's blanket. They definately go to the skin (silver?) and look like they are widening ever so slightly. The next several months should be interesting.

Next Saturday, Rick is picking up some Alpacas and bringing them to his ranch. He said he'd leave the trailer hooked up, so we can let Felix and ALPHA experience a trailer. They both need to get used to it, as ALPHA will be going to shows and Felix will be visiting nursing homes and walking in parades. I wonder if it is going to be as hard to get them used to a trailer as it will be for me to get used to pulling a trailer.

I got to help with treats today. Yep, Princess didn't let me down. She ate from my hand. No, the youngsters wouldn't. I did sneak a feel of Percy's neck and back when she was looking the other way. Soft!!!!

My Birthday Weekend

I celebrated the 30th anniversary of my 29th birthday on Friday the 13th and throughout the weekend. Rick & Pati took me to dinner at a fabulous Spanish restaurant in Riverside on Friday night. That was after opening my gifts from them (and my herd). I received a beautiful shawl (100% Alpaca, of course) and a photo collage of my Alpacas and memorable moments at the ranch. Thank you so much Pati and Rick!

Saturday I celebrated with my family. Sunday, my mom and dad visited the ranch for the first time. I was very anxious for them to see my passion and my future. They were amazed at the many different colors and the peacefullness of the ranch.

After my parents left, I stayed for awhile to hang out with my best friends. I went out into the main field to take some photos. While I was there, Rick walked over from the north field and told me he saw "nose & toes" from the back of Sambuca. I, quietly, walked over to the north field to witness the birth. By the time I got there (like all of 2 minutes), the cria was already on the ground! And, within 15 minutes, Sambuca passed the placenta. Wow, talk about a fast birth! Pretty incredible for an experienced mom, let alone a maiden. After leaving them alone for awhile, Rick carried the new boy up to the nursery with mom following close behind. This little guy weighs 12.7 pounds. When he didn't attempt to stand for awhile, Rick started a process of doses of Caro syrup, then bottle fed Colostrum. The cria was attempting to stand, but wasn't quite strong enough to stay up. As far as I know, mom and cria are still in the nursery and Rick is continuing to assist in providing nourishment. I did get an e-mail from Rick that the little boy is doing better.

For many posts, I have been saying Felix has not been his ol' self. WELL. When I took my mom and dad down to Boy's Town to meet Felix and ALPHA, they were both love bugs! Felix let me rub his neck and give him kisses, and ALPHA stood right next to Felix and let me rub his neck, as well. That was a first! I don't know if this made a difference, but Rick had moved Flash, Storm and Ares (older boys) into another field. That left Felix, ALPHA and Harrison in the field they've called home. Then, we moved Aerosmith and Luther to the field today, as it was time for them to be weaned. I think Felix likes being the oldest in the field. When we brought Aerosmith and Luther in the field, ALPHA took a stance with his tail up as if to say "I'm the ALPHA male in this field". It was cute. We didn't go for a walk today because it was hot. Plus, I wanted them to get used to their new roommates.

Another great day at the ranch....

Paris Hilton released from "custody"

Yes, little Miss Hilton needed to be confined for a period of time, as mom Lady Penny, had a very bad tummy ache. With the drain of the new cria, and the heat, Penny had become severely dehydrated and needed very close supervision and medical attention. Rick & Pati knew just what to do (as Dr. Thacher was out of town for the holiday). After a sleepless day and a half, and lots of treatment and love, Penny was feeling better and was able to leave solitary confinement with her baby girl, Paris. They were permitted to hang out in the nursery with a few other girls for awhile. When Rick & Pati felt she was 100%, she took off running to the main field to find a great place to roll. Paris. well, I'm sure she strolled down the hill as to not mess her hair or present an unflattering Kodak moment. The photo I posted kinda gives you a clue as to her "presence".

We didn't do any breeding when I was at the ranch on Saturday. Dr. Thacher came to examine mom and the newest cria, "Apollo" (we think), who was born to Malea and 4Peruvian Condor. Both got a clean bill of health and joined the herd in the main field. It is so much fun to watch a new cria walk down the hill to the rest of the herd. All the Alpacas come running to meet the new baby. It's really cute to watch.

Rick & I took Felix and ALPHA for a walk. Felix still has a way to go before he's back to his ol' self, but he certainly is improving. He still isn't as lovey as he used to be. I'm hoping it's just temporary. ALPHA is doing very well. I think he'll make me proud at the Monterey Pronk! I already know if he wins a ribbon I will cry.

I just sort of hung out today. I did take quite a few pictures but nothing spectacular. Sometimes they'll pose, sometimes they won't. To get the photo I've posted of Paris, I was, literally, laying on my belly in the dirt and inching up to her like a worm! Well worth it.

A few favorites have gone to a new home since I was last at the ranch. Gatley. Bunny, Sciorocco and McKenzie have moved to Valley Center. Rick said they went to a very nice home (and their new owner sings to them). Since the Alpacas don't know the words, they can't sing with her. They just hummmmm along :)

I made a mistake about Mo...he didn't leave last Thursday, he's leaving this Thursday. He had fun with the ladies while he was here. And, he'll be back in the fall.

Tomorrow is, my girl, Princess' 9th birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRINCESS
Maybe Rick will give you extra treats. Oh, news flash! Princess FINALLY ate treats out of Rick's hand! That's my girl....

Paris Hilton lives in Murrieta

I apologize for posting this 3 days after I was at the ranch. I've been very busy at work and having a new fence put in my back yard. Today is July 4th and I'm trying to catch up on things before I go to a barbeque and pool party at a friend's house.

Yes, the title is correct! Lady Penny delivered a gorgeous little girl on Wednesday, June 27th. No doubt, if you look at her newborn photo and read Rick's update, the choice of name is perfect. Paris Hilton lives at All American Alpacas in Murrieta, CA. Check out her photo and Rick's update from last week at www.allamericanalpacas.com. No doubt she will be the "star" of the main field and the focus of paparazzi far and wide. "That's hot"....

Because of my fence, I went to the ranch on Sunday instead of my normal Saturday. I got there around 9 because it was supposed to be (and was) around 100 degrees by noon. Rick brought Mo up for a date with Mooney while it was still cool. Mo is going to Colorado for the summer/fall on Thursday. When he returns, I'm hoping Vanilla Sundae will be ready to have a date with him. Their ancestry, on both sides, is quite impressive. A cria with them as parents should be pretty incredible.

Rick told me Star spit and ran from Fred last week. I hope that means she's pregnant. She's so hard to read. She'll spit one week and sit the next. Go figure. Rick showed me Alpaca sales on the internet to compare medium fawn to light rose gray females under 2 years of age. There are about 20 times the number of medium fawn to light rose grays for sale. The price difference is about $10,000 in favor of the light rose gray. How cool is that? If you read my last posting, Rick color checked Star and although she was, originally, registered as a medium fawn, she is now, clearly, light rose gray. Her registration has been officially changed. Go Star!

I've also mentioned in a previous posting that Meg Ryan is Star's best buddy. They are inseparable. Meg's a little goofy, which gives her personality. She was a soprano during her entire date with Fred. The next time she saw him through the fence, she started dancing and acting silly. She's curious and loves to smell my tennis shoes and nibble the laces. She's also a blue eyed white. You may think "how stunning", but....most blue eyed whites are deaf and are not the most desireable of the herd. Rick & Pati have a blue-eyed white; they bred her to Fred and she had a stunning cria with big brown eyes. So, it's possible to produce something wonderful from, what some may consider, an inferior Alpaca. From what I've been able to research on the internet about them, most information is quite positive. I've said all this because I am interested in buying Meg Ryan. One reason is because of Star and her attachment to Meg (and vice versa). But, most of all, I believe she can be a positive addition to my herd. I would then have white, medium fawn, beige/medium fawn and light rose gray females. That's a pretty good start on my "rainbow", don't you think? I'll keep you posted.

Rick had a ranch visit, so while he was busy, I haltered up ALPHA for a walk, by himself. He's been walking with Felix, so this could be interesting. Nope. I haltered him with no problem and with very little encouragement, he walked around the ranch. He didn't drop to his knees once. I realized that if you touch him gently on his neck, slightly below his chin (I guess near his Adam's apple, if he has one), he freezes. He stands perfectly still until you move your hand. Rick said this will be great in the show ring. I forgot to try to open his mouth and show his teeth. Rats! I'll have to do that next time. It's all about getting him ready for his first show in September (Monterey Pronk in Monterey, CA). I, also, took Felix for a walk today. He took a little longer to get haltered, and a little encouragement to get started, but he did better today than in previous weeks. I'm sure he'll be back to his ol' self soon....it will just take time, patience and love. Before I left Boy's Town, I belly hosed all the boys (except Fred, who wouldn't leave the feeder - that's O.K. Fred, you need your strength!). While I was running the hot water out of the hose, Vivace made it very clear to me that he would be the first to be hosed. No problem.

I also belly hosed the weanlings in center field, which brought all the Alpacas on each side to the fence. Yes, everyone got a good soaking. I tried to focus on the "fatties" (as Rick calls them) - the ones on baby watch, who have to be the most uncomfortable of all. They are so much fun to belly hose, and they surround you and jockey for position closest to the hose. Nala loves drinking from the nozzle and will follow it wherever you move. A few of the little ones didn't quite understand what was going on and didn't really want to be a part of it.

Another good, but hot, day. Hope you have a great July 4th and that Rick & Pati have a baby today (cria, that is :) Do you think they'd name it Sam?

Another Great Day At The Ranch

I arrived at the ranch about 10AM anticipating a very hot day. I figured we would be doing alot of belly hosing. Nope, it was a beautiful day with a wonderful breeze. I was hoping to witness a birth, but none of the girls agreed. I did get to meet the newest cria, Lancelot (mom: Guinevere).

Fred had already had one date before I arrived. We brought Viviace up to meet Duchess, but she wasn't in the mood. After a little break, we brought Fred back up to the breeding pen to spit test Star. Although she had spit the week before, today she was somewhat receptive and eventually sat. Guess I'm not going to have a 2008 Mother's Day cria. Maybe Father's Day. Star is so funny, she would only sit by the feeder. I guess she didn't want to be too far from the food. She sat for awhile, then would get up, then sit, etc. I'm not quite sure if Fred spent enough time doing his thing to get the job done. We'll know in a few weeks. Yep, Star is definately a "silly maiden". Some exciting news....before Star was shorn, she was medium fawn. Her registration also says she is medium fawn. Now that she's been shorn, her coloring is different. Rick brought out the color chart to check her and she is now LIGHT ROSE GRAY! Since there are not alot of rose gray Alpacas, that will certainly increase her value.

Speaking of rose gray...ALPHA is continuing to change color. He still has about the same number of little white spots on his blanket, but they appear to be spreading out a little. Today, Rick noticed white hairs around his withers and going up his neck. It looks like he may be changing to a rose gray, as well.

Rick walked ALPHA today and I walked Felix. Although Felix was a little stubborn until we got up the hill, he did much better today than he has the last few weeks. Since he has this bad habit of wanting to always turn to the right, I moved the lead to the ring on the left side of his halter (rather than the ring in the middle under his chin), and that really helped. ALPHA didn't drop to his knees once today. He is doing so well on a halter. He even walked on to the patio and looked in the sliding glass door (and saw a very handsome Alpaca in the glass). Rick then walked him in to the garage and he went, with no problem! We walked them both down to the main fields to see the girls and crias through the fence. Of course, all the Alpacas had to run to the fence to see these handsome boys. Several of the girls were in the nursery and Rick walked ALPHA up to the fence. Princess (ALPHA's mom), came up to the fence and she and ALPHA were nose to nose. It was such a touching moment for mom to see her cria after several weeks of separation that it made me cry. It looked like she was giving ALPHA a kiss. Rick started working with ALPHA to prepare him for his first show in September. He got him to stand properly, looked at his teeth, and put his hands all over him as a judge would. ALPHA was super! Considering this is only his 5th time on a halter (1 time for shearing, 1 time for moving to Boy's Town and 3 walks), he is doing very, very well. I am so proud of him. Felix isn't quite his ol' self yet, but was much better today than the last few weeks. Rick & Pati has alot of pepper trees on their property and today Felix had to stop at every one and eat leaves off the branches. He's never done that before. In fact, he was eating leaves, plants, and hay off the ground during the entire walk. Got the munchies, Felix???

Sweety is a riot to watch. In a previous writing, I had described her as the NASCAR girl. She also bounces around, kicking up her heels and looks like a little Jack In The Box toy. She jumps straight up in the air for no apparent reason. She can be alone, or in a crowd and still do it. This girl is "personality plus", growing like a weed, and absolutely gorgeous. Merlin's Majik is getting more stunning each day.

There had been some changes in the fields since the last time I was there. Rick moved the weanlings to the center field because a few were still trying to nurse from the new moms. Most of the new moms are maidens, so they don't seem to realize the cria trying to nurse isn't theirs.
I learned something today about weanlings. I gave treats to the them and not one would eat from my hand. Rick said they never do. But, my girl Princess made my day by eating treats out of my hand again.

On June 28th, my girl Vanilla Sundae will be one year old. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, VANILLA!

My First Anniversary As An Alpaca Owner

Wow, it's hard to believe one year ago today I bought my first Alpacas, Fudge & Princess. Two pregnant dams, due in October and November of 2006. I've learned so much in the past year (and have alot more to learn). I've experienced the ultimate heartache (losing Fudge and her cria in October while she was giving birth), and the ultimate joy (witnessing the birth of Princess' cria, ALPHA, in November). There has not been one single minute in the past year that I have doubted I made the best decision in wanting Alpacas in my life. I am just as excited when I go to the ranch now as I was a year ago. I am so grateful to Pati and Rick for allowing me to spend so much time with them to learn all the things I need to know.

Yesterday, at the ranch, we did some breeding. Manda Smith had a date with Fred, and Mooney had a date with Mo. Yep, my little girl Vanilla hung out at the fence, as usual. She's very curious about breeding. I hope she is as receptive when it's her time. Maidens can be a challenge, to say the least. It took us over 2 months to finally get Star to sit. Rick spit tested Star last week and it appears her date with Fred on May 31 did the job. That means she should deliver her first cria around Mother's Day 2008. Go Fred! Rick said he will probably ultrasound Star in a few months to make sure.

We also spit tested Priscilla and Mocha and they both spit off.

Although Gwen is as big as a house, and I thought for sure she would deliver last weekend, she's hanging in there. I told Rick I think she's waiting until today to give him a Father's Day present.
Percy seems to have gotten into Pati's purse for money to give me to buy something for Rick for Father's Day. So, yesterday I delivered the gift of a DVD of Midnight Cowboy from Percy and the herd.

Sciorocco has joined ALPHA and Felix in Boy's Town. Rick and I took Felix and ALPHA for a walk. ALPHA is doing very well on a halter. He still likes to drop to his knees, but doesn't do it as often. ALPHA even let me kiss his little nose today...WOW. Felix, on the other hand, has not been himself for awhile. He's been a challenge to walk and doesn't want to cooperate. I'm hoping it's just all the changes that have been going on in the last few months. I'm sure with continuous walks and lots of love and attention he'll be back to his ol' self soon. They were both weighed: ALPHA is 72.4 pounds and Felix is 90.2 pounds.

I spent some time in the field with all the crias. It is so nice to see so many healthy babies running around, messing with the adults, and teasing each other. Sweety has grown tremendously and is the biggest trouble maker. She needs no encouragement to jump and kick up her legs and run around the field. Merlin's Majik is stunning. Rick was able to get ahold of him to part his fiber and see that he will be a silver gray. There is rose gray on the tips, but below is a beautiful silver gray. His black face really makes him stand out in a crowd.

I got to help with treats...one of my favorite things. Once again, Princess ate out of my hand.
Since she is pretty standoffish, eating out of my hand is quite a thrill.

Not only another great day at the ranch....but a great year having Alpacas in my life.
The following year will bring new crias, shows and who knows, maybe additions to my herd.

ALPHA Takes Me For A Walk

It was a pretty relaxing day at the ranch today. Rick had some ranch visitors and also had a lady drop off a female, with her month old cria, for breeding to Fred. Michelle from Aces High in Anza stopped by, as did some of Rick & Pati's neighbors. It was more a day of visiting with adults than Alpacas.

ALPHA seems to be settling in to his new home quite nicely. I decided to start getting him used to walking on a halter. His first show will be in September, so I want to make sure he has good manners for the judge :) It took a couples tries to get him to come out of his field in to the center "alley". Once he's alone, it's easier to get him in a corner and get the halter on. He's such a little baby. The minute the halter goes on, he drops to the ground and plays dead. The nice thing about that is he lets me touch him and get a good look at his fiber. He seems to have a few more spots this week. Whether or not he'll end up rose gray is still a mystery. I, finally, got him to walk out of the gate, walk two steps, sit, walk two steps, sit.... I decided today would be his day and he could walk me. He did pretty good, considering this is only his second time with a halter. We just stayed out for a little while today. Each time, we'll stay out a little longer. Soon, maybe I'll take him for a walk instead of him taking me.

I, also, took Felix out for a walk today. He really hasn't been himself lately. Not quite as lovey, and certainly not as cooperative on the halter. I think he's just had too many new experiences in the past month (shearing, gelding, losing friends to new homes and getting new roommates).
I'm sure he'll settle down and be his ol' self again real soon. It would probably help for me to watch the Halter Training video a few more times.

There is a new baby at the ranch and boy is he a looker! Arianna (sire: Merlin) gave birth on Thursday to Merlin's Majik. He is stunning. He's a silver gray with a black face. Rick said he's only seen one other silver gray male with a black face and he sold for BIG BUCKS! I know Rick & Pati are thrilled.

I spent a little time hanging out in the main field and enjoying watching all the crias. It is so much fun to watch them run and play. Sweety is a NASCAR girl. She speeds around the fields, and cuts corners like a pro.

Not quite sure, yet, if Star is pregnant. I should know in the next week or so. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Looks like we'll probably wait until January to breed Vanilla Sundae. That should bring a Christmas 2008 baby. We could breed her a little sooner, but don't want to chance her delivering her first cria while we're on the First Annual PACAribbean Cruise in October 2008. Why not consider joining us? Visit www.pacaribbean.com for details.

ALPHA moves to Boy's Town - Meg Ryan Is A Soprano

It was a bittersweet day today. It was time to move ALPHA away from mom, and to Boy's Town. Rick corraled him in the show pen and didn't have much trouble haltering him for the first time. As soon as he put the halter on, ALPHA cushed and played dead. Rick was bending over him and parting his fiber and motioned for me to come in the pen. When I looked at ALPHA's back, I thought he had little patches of white fuzz on him. NOPE. Apparently, he is changing color and Rick thinks he might end up being a rose gray. Right now he is considered light brown. Rick said if he ends up turning to rose gray, he will be spectacular in the show ring because his fiber is so soft (grays are usually not soft). If he stays light brown, with the little white spots, that would work against him in the show ring, but wouldn't hurt his chances as a herdsire. This is going to be interesting. He wasn't too bad getting him to walk to his new digs, but every so many feet he would cush and squeel like a squeeky toy. Rick got Flash to walk with him, and he did much better. Now he is in a field with Felix, Flash, Storm, Ares and Harrison. He grew up with Felix and Harrison, so they aren't all strangers. They all spent time checking each other out. I'm sure he'll adjust and be just fine. I hung out with Princess for awhile and it appeared she was looking for ALPHA. Princess, your boy has gone on to the next stage of his life....with the big boys. I'm sure after 7 months of nursing, she'll be relieved. Now she can focus on the baby in her tummy that is due in November. Think pink!

We did some breeding today and it was too funny! Meg Ryan (Star's best buddy) got to meet Snowmass Jericho's Conquisador (Fred), yet wasn't quite sure what to do. She looked a little confused. To give you some history; Meg is a blue eyed white, deaf, and a maiden. Attempting to breed her hasn't been successful as she wouldn't sit and appeared confused. She got a hormone shot the same day Star did last month. So, we moved Fred out of the pen, and Rick gave Meg a shot of PacaValium to relax her (of course, that's not the medical term - I just don't remember what it was called), we waited about 45 minutes, and POOF, Meg sat for Fred. The funny part was she sang soprano the whole time! Not like a hurt or scared sound...more like a high pitched horse winney. That is not normal for females being bred so it was pretty funny. So funny, Rick videotaped it. Now Meg Ryan and her best buddy Star have both been bred to Fred, and if the breeding took (cross your fingers), they will both deliver around Mother's Day 2008.

We also bred Mo ("Show Me The Money") to Summer today. It's been a challenge getting Mo interested in a girl, although he is a very experienced herdsire. I know Rick was very happy that he finally did the job with Summer. During both breedings, my little girl Vanilla Sundae was hanging on the fence. It was almost like she was saying "me next, me next". Nope. You've got more growing to do first, little girl. She will be a year old on June 28th, but probably won't be bred until the Fall. Rick says she needs more hip width and maturity.

I took Felix for a little walk, but he wasn't very cooperative. Probably because of the new tenant (ALPHA), he wanted to stay in his field. He had a little eye infection, but it seems to have cleared up. I'm sure he'll be more up for the walk next weekend. Today, when Rick was ordering halters, I ordered one for Felix with his name embroidered on it. After all, once he is able to leave the ranch to visit nursing homes and walk in parades, he'll need a really cool halter.
It's blue with white lettering. He'll look so sharp. When I get it, I'll post a picture of him with it on.

I spent some time in the field with the Alpacas and took pictures. I love all the little ones running around! Duke, Sweety and Nancy Ann are buddies and so cute to watch. Hopefully, there will be a couple new crias born this week. I think Rick said he is on "baby watch" for 4.

I'm really excited about going to the ranch next weekend, as Rick is going to ultrasound a female to see if she's pregnant. That will be a first for me. Cool!