Every day on my way to work I pass fields of livestock. First, there are the horse farms on either side of a beautiful country road that I navigate with gusto! Then, there are the herds of cows, in every color, shape and variety. Dairy cows, baby cows...no wonder the cow is sacred in India!
I cherish the drive. It is how I welcome a new day into my life. About ten minutes into the drive, I pass my favorite site of all: A tiny, little farm that one would miss if you blink...It is here I fell in love with the most unusual animal; a Llama. His antics are etched in my mind. Majestic, wise, he holds court daily with sheep, and is most protective of the smallest of the flock: the new-borns.
I swore I would stop and introduce myself to the owners, get to be up close and personal- but never did. It is a soothing sight; observing my llama kneel down with his charges, gently looking after them. Little ones picking away at the fur on his belly, him arching his back, but never being annoyed.
Last Sunday, I pulled off the highway and ambled down a little dirt road leading to a large, fenced in pasture. I walked toward a wooden gate and cottage home, where promptly greeted by an not so happy min-pin...Barking furiously, to no avail, as no one was home. Should I just walk into the corral? After all, I was finally HERE... I wasen't going to leave without saying hello.
In the distance, I caught sight of two ladies and a gentleman with a straw hat...carrying a pitch fork..After apologizing for interrupting their Sunday, I found them most welcoming .
"You aren't the only one who has stopped by to say hello." I immediately felt at ease as I got introduced to the whole family and all the pets.
I was told that my beloved Llama is named "Checkers." Not surprising, with his coal black body and beautiful white blaze. "Checkers" was bought three years ago to protect the sheep from kyotes. Thinking he was quite expensive, I was told he was two-hundred and fifty dollars (because he wasen't trained to carry packs, or do any formal work). Then there is baby Pearl, a little dollop of a sheep, just weeks old...And "Ashley". Ashley( a beautiful apricot) came right up to me, with her strong and intimidating horns! I was told that Ashley was the only one of the sheep that was bottle fed.
I admired how well cared for they are...That they are brought in for inclement weather, and if it gets too hot, they are back in the barns, seeking the refuge in cooler air. How I love to see my little friends on my way to work each day!
I hope you enjoy looking at these pictures as much as I do. They are shorn regularly for weaving and knitting shows around the State, and the owners are proud of the the awards they have won.
Just one more reason to thank God I live in Colorado.
