Field trip to Woodland, Washington.

Last month when I attended the Oregon Flock and Fiber Festival, I met a gal who was showing her alpacas and yarn. She invited me to visit her farm in Woodland, Washington. She was so easy to talk with and willing to share her experience that I thought, "why not go visit the farm and see what alpaca farming is all about." I had an idea it was going to be nice but it was better than nice!! Several friends came with me on this drive into Washington State, and up the Lewis River. Karin Finch and her husband built the farm from the ground up. Their home is a work of art, filled with everything they love and it's a home to enjoy!! They even offer a bed and breakfast experience for those who would venture out to this countryside and want to learn about the alpaca business. It is a first rate accommodation complete with a theater to watch movies in grand scale!

The land at White Oak Alpaca Farm is used wisely, with consideration for the animals and their environment. Each animal that is born on the farm has been bred with the utmost care. It is also apparent that the alpacas are of the highest quality. We were graciously invited into the Finch home and had a tour. No matter where we walked on the property, we could see beautiful views of the sky and forests that surrounds the farm. From the house we could see the animals grazing. There are over 50 Alpacas on the farm and each one is named and recognized by Karin. She fondly told of being at most of their births, she knows them by sight and personality.

This little girl is named Scooter. She scoots right up to meet us. It is not common for an alpaca to come towards a visitor, but Scooter's personality makes her very friendly. Most of the alpacas stand back and size us up before coming forward. We were careful not to move quickly and we did get to pet a few of them. Their coats are so soft and dense.

The softness and denseness of the fiber varies between animals, as well as how long the fiber grows. Karin shows us the color that lays closest to the skin, and we can see the color differences in each alpaca. This little guy is named Black Diamond, and he allows us to get very close as well.
In another fenced off area we met the girls! They are teenagers, very curious and as individual as their names!! Just like people..eh!! Here are the moms and their babies. Most of the babies are still nursing, being together they frolic and play all day long. This view is as wide and far as we could see!! Imagine having this to look at everyday!!

Here is another view, but from the downstairs living room in the house. The oak tree seen in both pictures is said to be three hundred years old. It is in a protected area and is the focal point of the farm. It is a white oak.

We headed home after two hours, reminiscing on everything we had learned and seen. This field trip is one we won't forget!

If you are interested in learning more about White Oak Alpacas go to their web site at: http://www.whiteoakalpacas.com/ Karin Finch also has a wonderful supply of Alpaca yarn, from her animals, and in many colors to sell.