November 2, 2004

November is such a cozy month, it seems. The outside work was pretty well finished in October and now it is time to make and bake for the holidays.

The new pasture has been tilled, fertilized, tilled again, and planted. Unfortunately, the rain displaced the seeds, but we're not complaining about the moisture. The hens have begun laying and we have 2 to 5 per day. I had forgotten the rich yellow of the scrambled eggs. The fluffy Brahmas are very pretty. The shortest, fluffiest one is "Gertie". Unfortunately, the beautiful Americauna, Lucy, is Luke! I now know a breed I want next year, though. The feathers from the three breeds are saved, microwaved to kill "critters", and shared with spinners, basket makers, and other crafters. Our son-in-law has provided the overgrown zucchinis and over-ripe tomatoes for special treats for the 'pacas and chickens. They love them and check out each person who opens the gate, just in case a treat is in store.

Last Saturday, we put the 8 weanlings and big sister, Callie, in the other side of the barn with their own pasture. It feels just like walking into my classroom to step into the pen with them and greet each according to their personality. I teach students with learning and behavioral issues, and the same patience and persistence seems to work with the 'pacas. My first training with them is to handle each three or four times while the door is shut with all of us in the pen. I let three of them at a time try a halter while we play. When they are with all the mothers, it is difficult to handle them so much, so I look forward to this time. They must not mind it too much, as there are always one or two who come nudging during someone else's turn.

Clark is busy making both round and triangle looms. It seems he gets one or two orders each day. It makes me nervous to sign them with the woodburner after he has done such a nice job. He is planning his entry for next year's fair and counting on some "down" time to weave it one of these days. He will be busy this month, however, as he will spend a week in Australia, consulting. It will be a rewarding trip, as he will visit a lead smelter and refinery that he has heard about all his professional career. It's a good thing we can count on family and friends to help out with the animals, as I can't miss school. I do plan a spinning day while he's gone, though. He will miss our 42nd anniversary, but I'm sure he will make up for it!

I am spinning and knitting for Christmas and birthdays. It's lucky that Christmas is a cold season here, so that the gifts can be knitted. I don't think alpaca swimsuits would go over well!

I hope you all are able to enjoy family gatherings around a table loaded with the bounty of the harvest, whether from your garden or local market.

Sit, Spin, and Watch the 'Pacas,

Janet

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Janet and Clark Otterness
Alta Mist Alpacas
2531 North Mountain Glen Road
Pine Canyon, Utah 84074
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phone: 435-882-0790
cell: 801-557-4162
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