It was a Saturday in August when I visited an Alpaca farm with some friends. It is located in the Uckermark, a beautiful landscape in Brandenburg, about two hours from Berlin. It was one of those summer days when the light and smell create memories of childhood summers - hot and long and full of adventures.
When we arrived we were welcomed by Theo, a black charmer with a friendly face and a wild haircut. I fell in love instantly. But I was told that Theo was more interested in blonde ladies...
We also met the rest of the gang and, honestly, Alpacas are amazing! They almost have an other-worldly appearance and the freshly clipped bodies emphasised the frizzy hairstyles - making them look like some Muppet Show fellows.
And they aren't shy, on the contrary, they are very curious and trusting already after a short time. Alpacas are very sensitive animals, especially when it comes to humans, similar to dolphins. That's why they are used more and more as an alternative to dolphin therapy, the farmer told us.
The family who owns this farm and welcomed us so warmly and never tired to answer our many questions also showed us their wool mill. It is Brandenburg's first wool spinning company and here they process not only their own Alpacas' wool but also wool that is sent to them from all over the world. From washing the wool, to combing, to spinning, to twisting - it's a complicated process that involves much love and skill and many sophisticated machines.
Thank you, Mr and Mrs Funke of the Alpaka-Park for this wonderful day and for explaining all this with so much enthusiasm and delight and for letting us visit your lovely animals!