We wanted an investment we could enjoy and watch grow -- one that would not be subject to the whims of economists or the emotions of big business. We wanted something that was environmentally sound, classy and would provide our children with a great learning experience along with great profit potential.

Like all investors, we could dream big, but the budget was not quiet as large as the dreams. We had a little property, but it had nothing on it that resembled a farm set up. 

Alpaca don't need a lot of space. They don't need fancy fencing or expensive barns. Their day to day upkeep is easy. We can even decide where to put the poop pile by just placing a small bag of droppings in the area we want it, and all the alpaca in our (then tiny) herd went in the designated spot!

Our alpaca do no damage to our trees or ground cover. Their feet do not damage our roads. If our neighbors want to hear their gentle hums, they have to come close, because our alpaca are quiet.

Every year, even when the economy is terrible, our alpaca provide us with wonderful exotic fleece, once reserved only for kings. Every year our herd grows with the birth of another beautiful baby, or two, or three, or four, depending on the number of bred dams we have.

And even at a few hours old, they are as curious to learn about us as we are about them. They are gentle and easy to train. And, contrary to the common myth, they rarely spit.