A master class with homework!

It has been an alpaca filled weekend for both Paul and myself. We have just returned from a two day course on; identifying and measuring superior fibre traits in alpacas; and sire selection. The event, hosted at Northumbrian Alpacas, was taught by senior consultant alpaca specialist Cameron Holt who is visiting from Australia. This man really is alpaca royalty.

Although we only live just over an hour away, we decided to stay over and make a weekend of it. We made the most of enjoying the food and wine at the local hostelry and enjoyed plenty of alpaca chatter (to the wee hours in Paul's case!) We also caught up with Debbie. Debbie and I always seemed to come up with the same answers... whether right or wrong!

We did manage to get home this afternoon whilst it was still light enough to have a really good inspection of our cria. I have to admit that we are more than happy with our little herd although it is really too early to tell. We will however get the real verdict next week. Yes...I have been brave enough to have Cameron and his wife Joy to stay for a few days whilst they explore the lakes. I am told that a little alpaca evaluation will be included. Cameron has already warned us that he will be nothing but honest ...good or bad! If I don't blog for a few days it will be due to severe depression.

It will be interesting to see what Cameron thinks of our head types. I have to admit that I do like well covered faces, thought Cameron was suggesting that medium coverage was ideal to avoid 'fleece blindness' (facial fleece growth which interferes with vision). Tabitha (pictured) would appear to fit with his aim. I guess some things will always be down to personal preference. Anyway. I got a lovely welcome home from the gang...they are such a friendly bunch... and that will always be my preference.