I was a little worried about Bug being able to find a job out here since we’re so rural. There isn’t much close by and as far as job opportunities for teenagers go… well, the county is lacking in that area too. So if a teenager wants to find a job where we live, they’re looking at an almost 20 to 30 minute drive. Not really what a mom whose teenager has no driver’s license wants to hear.
But luck and some FFA friends came through when they heard he was looking for a part time job. For two hours a day, four days a week he works at an Alpaca farm. Not glamorous I know but when you’re 15 1/2 there aren’t a lot of options available so it’s important to keep an open mind about what kind of job you might be able to get.
Now he comes home from school, changes clothes, checks on the cows and if he has to work, myself or Brian drive the 15 minutes to the Alpaca farm to drop him off and he texts us when he’s ready to come home. He’s only had the job for a month so he’s still kind of working into a routine but he doesn’t seem to mind the work and the alpacas don’t seem to mind him.
Actually, they’re kind of cute. And they are super soft. The owners of the farm are extremely nice and were kind enough to give me a couple of bags of fleece seconds to me. I see some yarn spinning in my future with these guys, that is if I ever get my butt around to learning how to spin.
Everyone look at the camera!
Alpaca Education Time: Did you know that Alpaca fiber isn’t really called wool? We just call it wool because it’s the popular term for animal fiber. Alpaca fiber is actually called fleece. It’s also warmer than sheep’s wool and stronger but more lightweight. You’re welcome.
Now Smile!
This little guy has my heart. He recently lost his mamma and now he needs to be bottle fed. The day I came out and grabbed pictures he had no fear of me and seemed to love me, or maybe it was the black sweater I had on. Either way, Can I tuck him in my pocket and take him home? Pretty please?
Congratulations kid on your first job! A little hard work never hurt anyone!
