The 2 1/2 hour drive here was not very spectacular; rolling hills, prairie flatlands and even desert then we crossed the Columbia River and it was a whole ‘nother world at the Sandollar Alpaca and Great Pyrenees Farm run by Nicki and Collins for the last 20 years. We set up camp in a glorious breeze next to the enclosure with the female alpacas who were so curious studying us with their big black eyes. They had just been sheered which takes four people to do; one to sheer and three to hold the animal down and rotate them around. Their Pyrenees momma gave birth to 6 puppies 6 weeks ago. They were adorable and so fluffy. Three of the alpacas are pregnant and isolated in another area, one ready to birth any minute. Collins has been doing leatherwork for over 60 years. His creations are works of art including saddles, holsters, purses and so much more that he displays and sells in his well organized shop. John purchased a beautifully hand crafted belt. Nicki gave us a tour of the alpaca processing workroom where the fleece goes from sheering to yarn among other things. Besides alpacas and dogs, they have chickens, carrier pigeons, plants, herbs and a fish pond. After dinner, we just sat next to the female corral and watched the peaceful creatures go about their business. It was an interesting and delightful Harvest Host stay. Tomorrow it’s off to Oregon.
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