Green Gable Alpacas Blog

Green Gable Alpacas Blog http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/ Autumn Update http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/autumn-update/ <img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200300-009.JPG" width="200" height="300" alt="" title=""/>It is hard to believe that the Summer of 2011 has drawn to a close. The days are getting shorter and the nights a little cooler but we have been blessed with pleasant weather the last several weeks. What a wonderful start to Autumn!
<div class="captionImage left" style="width: 200px;"><img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200133-056.JPG" width="200" height="133" alt="" title=""/>Naqeeto
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The Summer was a busy one for us. We hosted close to a thousand visitors from around the globe. Tourists from Japan, Taiwan, Italy, France, Switzerland, Germany, Australia, Austria, Poland, South Africa, as well as the United States and across Canada stopped by to visit the farm, learn about alpacas and shop our<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/our-retail-shop/"> Boutique</a>. Many of these people had never seen alpacas before and were surprised to learn the array of fantastic products that their fiber can produce.
We also hosted our first WWOOFers this Summer too; Damaris from Germany and Shota, Ibuki and Yuka from Japan. They were invaluable helpers around the farm assisting with everything from gardening to herd health. Their company and stories from home were a welcome reprieve at the end of a long day. We were treated to traditional German and Japanese cooking, the art of Origami and a private choral concert at our community`s historic church, St. James Anglican.
Of course, Summertime is a time to get much needed projects done around the farm too. With the help of Ryan, our employee funded by PEI`s Rural Jobs Initiative, we were able to set up another pasture, continue with renovations to the barns and build new feeders and hay mangers.
<div class="captionImage right" style="width: 200px;"><img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200133-054.JPG" width="200" height="133" alt="" title=""/>Not so Shilo
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Although cria season is now over for another year, we are still enjoying our new babies - four in total. Gianni Depp, a beautiful dark brown boy, Silken Satin, a light girl with satin-like fleece, Naqeeto, a gorgeous rose grey boy and Shilo, a bright white girl who is anything but shy. Perhaps her registered name will have to be, `Not so Shilo`.
Our Summer concluded with participating in both the 10th Annual Open Farm Day on the 18th of September followed closely by National Alpaca Farm Days the weekend of September 24 and 25th. Combined, we hosted approximately 600 visitors - most of them local people - and raised several hundred dollars for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). Thanks to all of our visitors and sponsors for making these such enjoyable events.
Finally, check out the September/October issue of <a href="http://www.saltscapes.com/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=1269&amp;Itemid=213">Saltscapes</a> magazine. Katherine Mott visited our farm in mid-July and her write up is included in this issue. Cheers!!! and have a wonderful Autumn!
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</div> Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:30:00 -0400 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/autumn-update/ Summertime at GGA http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/summertime-at-gga/ It has been a busy time following the Mayflower Alpaca Show here at Green Gable Alpacas. Although the temperatures betray the calendar, summer is fast approaching - and with, it the busy tourist season begins.
Our shop, the <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/our-retail-shop/">Fiber House Boutique</a> is open again and filled with all manner of alpaca products. Everything from raw fiber, custom blending yarns, socks, our fabulous insoles, sweaters and scarves and many one-of-a-kind, hand made alpaca treasures. We have been working with local crafts-people to develop a unique line of products that you will only find in our shop or our on-line store. Be sure to stop by often as products will be constantly changing.
Summer on the Island also means that it is time to shear. Shearing day is Saturday June 11th. We will be at it all day and it is quite an experience to witness. Feel free to drop in.
We have been working with many local government agencies who have been highly supportive of our business. With their help we have received financial assistance to make our farm and operations more efficient, productive and profitable. Special thanks to the Department of Agriculture and the Future Farmers Program who have provided funding for us to undertake the following training courses: Alpaca Marketing with Julie Wassom - the Alpaca Marketing Coach; and the two day basic CameliDynamics course with Marty Magee Bennette. Thanks also to Paula Bigger, our local MLA and Kelly Milligan at the Department of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development. With their assistance, we have been approved under the Rural Jobs Initiative Program to hire a full time employee for 14 weeks at virtually no cost to us. With this assistance, futher farm infrastructure work will be completed.
We have also been working with the Department of Agriculture and Forestry to put a proposal together to start marketing our alplaca manure. Financial assistance for purchasing a chipper/vacuum and develop marketing materials, as well as providing ongoing marketing support is included in their program.
Work is also underway with Experience PEI to develop an experiential tour of our farm for Island visitors looking for unique Island experiences. We hope to have development completed and start accepting tours by early to mid Summer.
On the show front, we are proud to share that Americano Keswick's third fleece earned him 2nd place at the National AOBA Show in Denver, Colorado. Not bad considering the size of show and stiff competition.
As a final note, thanks to all of you who have supported Rachel or me in the upcoming Telus Walk to Cure Diabetes which is taking place around the Nation this month. It is not too late to support <a href="http://jdrfca.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.team&amp;eventID=991&amp;teamID=22068">Team Amanda Marie</a>, a group of close to 50 friends and family members who walk in honor and memory of our daughter, sister and very best friend, <a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=187910671">Amanda Marie Augustine</a>. Please visit the following <a href="http://jdrfca.donordrive.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=donorDrive.team&amp;eventID=991&amp;teamID=22068">page</a> to make your donation. All donations are gratefully received.
Cheers and Happy Summer!! Wed, 08 Jun 2011 08:27:18 -0400 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/summertime-at-gga/ GGA earns Top Honours at the Mayflower Alpaca Show http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-earns-top-honours-at-the-mayflower-alpaca-show/ Mother's Day weekend means that the annual Mayflower Alpaca Show is in full swing. This year we took 8 of our boys to the show to have them judged by Kathy Klay of Ohio; in a full fleece halter show. More than 50 entries from the Maritime Provinces, Quebec and as far away as Ontario traveled to Crapaud, PEI to participate in this event.<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200234-Kexwick-and-Rachel-winning.jpg" width="200" height="234" alt="" title=""/>
Green Gable Alpacas swept the winner's circle, earning First Place in all categories entered! In the tough yearling white male class of six, youngest entry, Arriba Sooper Trooper earned 1st ahead of last year's Color Champion at the Alpaca Ontario show. Following closely behind was <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/americanos-weston/">Americano's Weston</a> in 3rd. Judge Klay commented on the fineness, density and uniformity of all the fleeces but conceded that Trooper's extreme density relative to fineness earned him the top spot. On leaving the ring, Judge Klay commented to handler, Rachel, that Trooper had a 'very nice fleece'.
<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/sunset-meadow-s-cherry-cola/">Sunset Meadow's Cherry Cola</a> was a crowd favorite with his typey, teddy bear look and top knotch-top knot. Judge Klay was vey complementary of the extreme fineness and brightness of his fleece and she said he was by far the winner of the 'cutest' animal entered.<img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage150225-Cola.jpg" width="150" height="225" alt="" title=""/>
In the only Color Champion class of the day, <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/sva-s-william-s-star-gazer/">SVA William's Star Gazer</a> earned top spot as Color Champion White Male.
Finally, in judging for Best in Show, GGA was well represented with six of our boys in consideration. Of the close to 30 animals in the ring, Judge Klay brought forward four animals for final consideration. To our suprise and honour, three of the four were our boys - Caillen, Cola and Keswick. The judge commented in the overall quality of all of the animals entered in the show and choose 43 month old <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/americanos-keswick/">Americano's Keswick</a> as Best in Show winner. Keswick, she said, had the best overall combination of conformation and fleece quality, specifically pointing out the extreme density and fineness of his fleece including the fineness of primary fibers. Her final comments to the crowd included a special mention about the uniformity and fineness of <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/caillen/">Caillen's</a> fleece.
<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage138292-Gianni-5.jpg" width="138" height="292" alt="" title=""/>While our showings were cause enough for celebration, mid way through the show we were advised that we had a cria born on the farm. It was a hard decision not to leave the show but with the help of some knowledgeable neighbours, we determined that mom and cria were well and could await our return following the show. Gianni Depp, a rich chocolate brown boy, is our first cria of the season - son of Border Trail Gypsy and SBA Alandro. 
Full show results can be found<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/about/gga-awards-and-accolades/2011/"> here</a>.
 Mon, 09 May 2011 08:30:48 -0400 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-earns-top-honours-at-the-mayflower-alpaca-show/ Spring is finally upon us. http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/spring-is-finally-upon-us/ <h2>It looks like Spring has finally found us in Prince Edward Island. It was touch and go for a while with many Islanders in awe of the amount of snow we received this winter. On my farm, there were parts of my 6 foot high perimeter fence that were buried in a half foot of snow! But enough about the white stuff.</h2>
With the warmer weather here it is time for me to survey the property and assess any damage from the winter's storms. Alas, there are patches of my near 2000 linear feet of fencing that will need some minor repair. But such is the life of a farmer, I'm learning.
Spring also means that cria season is not far along. This year we are execting 14 new arrivals and we couldn't be more excited. The first babies should arrive the 2nd week of May - certainly the snow will have melted by then, right? Of course, cria arrival also means that breeding season is upon us. This being the first year that I'm doing any significant breeding on the farm means that I have spent HOURS contemplating various matings; analyzing pedigrees and fiber traits to deterimine who I should breed with whom. With so many quality machos to choose from it has been difficult. Our plan this year is to test 5 new herdsires as well as breed our proven producers. With this plan we hope to be in a position next year to determine which lines we wish to focus on. But alas....I'm getting a little ahead of myself.
Of course, on the Island here Spring also means that Tourist Season is just around the corner. This represents a significant amount of exposure and business for us so I've been busing getting the Fiber House Boutique in order,
 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 14:19:42 -0400 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/spring-is-finally-upon-us/ Marketing Course begins tomorrow http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/marketing-course-begins-tomorrow/ Tomorrow I begin my first of two on-line Alpaca Marketing courses offered by Julie Wassom, "the alpaca marketing coach" and I couldn't be more excited. While I'm looking forward to learning new skills to advance the profile of my business and to receive valuable feedback about marketing initiatives that I have already undertaken, I really can't wait to take these new skills see them in action.
Special thanks to the Government of PEI and Skills Canada who have provided funding for me to participate. 
Stay tuned to future blogs from me as I complete assignments and learn new things. Mon, 14 Mar 2011 17:07:31 -0400 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/marketing-course-begins-tomorrow/ GGA at Locations near you http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-at-locations-near-you/ <h2>Green Gable Alpacas is thrilled to announce that our products will be available at a number of PEI locations for your convenience.</h2>
Check us out at: Cordelia's Artisan Boutique located in Charlottetown, PEI Blooming Arts Co-operative at Spinnaker's Landing, Summerside, PEI Fabric Crafts' N More and Quilt Gallery, O'Leary, PEI; and coming soon.... Julie's Yarn Shoppe, Borden/Carelton, PEI
Of course, our products are also available at our farm store, the Milk House Boutique, Birch Hill, PEI and on line at <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/our-retail-shop/">The Milk House Boutique</a>.
Looking forward to sharing our alpaca experiences with you! Sun, 13 Mar 2011 15:58:31 -0400 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-at-locations-near-you/ Proudly Sponsoring the 100th Anniversary Celebration of International Women's Day in Summerside, PEI http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/proudly-sponsoring-the-100th-anniversary-celebration-of-international-women-s-day-in-summerside-pei/ <h2>International Women's Day (8 March) is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future.<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200215-womens-day.gif" width="200" height="215" alt="" title=""/></h2>
In some places like China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria, International Women's Day is a national holiday. Suffragettes campaigned for women's right to vote. The word 'Suffragette' is derived from the word "suffrage" meaning the right to vote. International Women's Day honours the work of the Suffragettes, celebrates women's success, and reminds of inequities still to be redressed. The first International Women's Day event was run in 1911.
<h2>2011 is the Global Centenary Year and Green Gable Alpacas is proud to be an invited sponsor to the Summerside, PEI celebration of this historic event. </h2>
Visit <a href="http://www.internationalwomensday.com/">International Women's Day</a> for celebratory events near you. Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:22:14 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/proudly-sponsoring-the-100th-anniversary-celebration-of-international-women-s-day-in-summerside-pei/ Americano's Keswick earns his 4th Championship http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/americano-s-keswick-earns-his-4th-championship/ <h2>At the Empire Alpaca Extravaganza, Americano's Keswick earns Reserve Champion Fawn with his third year fleece.</h2>
We are sooo proud of Keswick and his achievements in the show ring. The Empire Alpaca Extravaganza is one of the largest shows in North America. With this win, Keswick is now a four time Champion and we couldn't be prouder. <img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Americanos-Keswick/_resampled/resizedimage200251-americanos-keswick4.jpeg" width="200" height="251" alt="" title=""/>
Untill midnight tomorrow night (Februray 14, 2011) you can still take advantage of our Valenetines' Special and book a breeding with him for only $500. This is an unparalled opportunity to get quality, proven genetics added to your herd. <a href="mailto:jogilvie@greengablealpacas.com"> Contact us</a> now to secure an exceptional breeding to any one of our Signature or Jr Herd Sires. Many of of these animals will be in Ontarioi in April. Don't delay. The clock is ticking....
 Sun, 13 Feb 2011 16:49:17 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/americano-s-keswick-earns-his-4th-championship/ Guest Speaker at WI Conference http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/guest-speaker-at-wi-conference/ <h2>Green Gable Alpacas is pleased and honored to be the invited Guest Speaker at the Women's Institute Conference to be held at Ellerslie School, March 7, 2011 at 7:00 pm.</h2>
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The Women’s Institute was first founded by <a href="http://www.womensinstitute.pe.ca/index.php3?number=1023864&amp;lang=E">Adelaide Hoodless</a> (by the way, Rachel and Amanda attended Adelaide Hoodless School in Hamiltion) in Stoney Creek, Ontario in 1897. In April 1913, the Department of Agriculture introduced Women’s Institutes into this province for the improvement of home and community life. The first official organization under the Department of Agriculture was formed at Marshfield in 1913, but previous to this, in 1911, a branch was formed at York known as the Alpha Women’s Institute. Many groups were formed following this and the first Annual Convention was held in 191<img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/adelaide-hoodless.jpg" width="200" height="252" alt="" title=""/>4.
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In P.E.I., there are approximately 110 branches with a total membership of approximately 1500. The Provincial Board is the governing body of the Federated Women’s Institute of P.E.I. Directors are elected from the members by the members themselves and represent the various branch Institutes. These elected representatives form the Provincial Board of Directors and formulate policies, provide leadership and act on behalf of the Women’s Institute members of P.E.I. The P.E.I. Women’s Institute is a member of the Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada which has a membership of over 13,000.
It is also a constituent society of the Associated Country Women of the World which was formed in 1930 and has societies in over 70 countries with a worldwide membership of over 9 million. Membership at the branch level gives an individual affiliation in PEIWI, FWIC and ACWW
Objectives:
<ul><li>To stimulate and develop leadership.</li>
<li>To establish Institutes as educational, cultural and social centres in their communities.</li>
<li>To promote a greater understanding and appreciation of the importance of the agriculture industry in the province.</li>
<li>To promote a greater understanding of social and economic problems affecting families.</li>
<li>To develop a greater appreciation of homemaking.</li>
<li>To promote local, national and international understanding, tolerance and goodwill. </li>
</ul>Meet the Challange:
We are proud of our accomplishments, and we are preparing for the 21st Century with confidence. There are many challenges to meet.
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</tr></tbody></table> Tue, 25 Jan 2011 10:48:40 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/guest-speaker-at-wi-conference/ Valentines Special http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/valentines-special/ <h2>It's a time when a young alpaca's fancy turns to love, and an alpaca owner's fancy turning to breeding plans.</h2>
For a limited time, we are offering drastically reduced stud service fees on all of our Signature Herd Sires and Jr. Herd Sires. Until Februrary 14, 2011 all of our males are being offered at ONLY $500 per breeding. To reduce transportation costs for those West of the Maritimes, these animals are scheduled to be in Ontario during the Spring AO show, April 9-11, 2011. Book your breeding now and get both our Live Birth and Quality Cria Guarantees at fantastic prices. <a href="mailto:jogilvie@greengablealpacas.com">Contact us for more details</a>. 
<h2>HURRY......ONLY UNTIL FEBRUARY 14!</h2>
<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Americanos-Keswick/_resampled/resizedimage139171-americanos-keswick4.jpeg" width="139" height="171" alt="" title=""/><img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Americanos-Keswick/_resampled/resizedimage200146-americanos-keswick5.jpeg" width="200" height="146" alt="" title=""/><a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/americanos-keswick/">Americano's Keswick</a> Victor's HemiAccoyo Americano x Snowflakes Charm
 
 
 
 
<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Rio/_resampled/resizedimage200190-thumbnail.jpeg" width="200" height="190" alt="" title=""/><img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Rio/_resampled/resizedimage139180-thumbnail-3.jpeg" width="139" height="180" alt="" title=""/>
<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/arriba-rio/">Arriba Rio</a> Qolmesa Nanimo x SBA Rainbow
 
 
 
 
 <img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/SVA-Williams-Star-Gazer/_resampled/resizedimage140202-thumbnail.jpeg" width="140" height="202" alt="" title=""/><img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/SVA-Williams-Star-Gazer/_resampled/resizedimage135197-thumbnail-2.jpeg" width="135" height="197" alt="" title=""/><a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/sva-s-william-s-star-gazer/">SVA William's Star Gazer</a> Jolimont Peruvian Sweet William x RFA Crystal Star
 
 
 
 
 <img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Americanos-Weston/_resampled/resizedimage168168-Americanos-Weston3.jpeg" width="168" height="168" alt="" title=""/><a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/americanos-weston/">Americano's Weston</a> Victor's HemiAccoyo Americano x <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/tell-the-truth/">TELL the Truth</a>
 
 
 
 <img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Griffen/_resampled/resizedimage200179-Arriba-Griffen3.jpeg" width="200" height="179" alt="" title=""/><img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Griffen/_resampled/resizedimage115185-griffen.jpg" width="115" height="185" alt="" title=""/><a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/arriba-griffen/">Arriba Griffen</a> SSA Sunset Brock x cPeruvian Glennis
 
 
 
 <img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Navarone/_resampled/resizedimage200158-thumbnail-4.jpeg" width="200" height="158" alt="" title=""/><img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Navarone/_resampled/resizedimage80180-navarone.jpg" width="80" height="180" alt="" title=""/><a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/arriba-navarone/">Arriba Navarone</a> Sumaq Valley's Wildheart x <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/qolmesa-nayelle/">Qolmesa Nayelle</a>
 
 
 
 
<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Caillen/_resampled/resizedimage160252-thumbnail.jpeg" width="160" height="252" alt="" title=""/><img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Caillen/_resampled/resizedimage91258-caillen.jpg" width="91" height="258" alt="" title=""/>
<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/caillen/">Caillen</a> Carbonnel Samuel x <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/alpacas-for-sale/bred-females/alloi-acres-cherry/">Alloi Acres Cherry</a>
 
<h1><a href="mailto:jogilvie@greengablealpacas.com">Contact us for details.</a></h1>
 
 
 
 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 11:41:20 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/valentines-special/ GGA Speaking at Community School http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-speaking-at-community-school/ We are pleased and honored to be asked to present at Community School in Tyne Valley. The presentation entitled, Raising Alpacas in the Heart of West Prince - From Farm to Fashion, takes place at Ellerslie Elementary School, Wednesday, January 26, 2011 at 7:00 pm. Hope to see you there! Wed, 19 Jan 2011 09:08:02 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-speaking-at-community-school/ Two Signature Herdsires offered in 2011 AO Stud Auction http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/two-signature-herdsires-offered-in-2011-ao-stud-auction/ <h2>Green Gable Alpacas is pleased to offer two of our Signature Herd Sires in the Stud Auction at the 10th Anniversary Alpaca Ontario show, April 9-11, 2011 in Orangeville, Ontario.</h2>
<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Americanos-Keswick/_resampled/resizedimage147147-americanos-keswick4.jpeg" width="147" height="147" alt="" title=""/><a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/americanos-keswick/">Americano's Keswick</a> is a three time Champion, winning his third Championship with his third year fleece. This comes as no great surprise, as all of his full siblings who have been shown have earned Champion status. His sire, Victor's HemiAccoyo Americano is a Get of Sire Winner (3/8) and sire to many award winning offspring and his dam, Snowflake's Charm is a two time Dam's Progeny winner. Judge Dawn Brooker commented that breeders should look closely at Keswick as he is, 'exactly what you should be breeding for'. Keswick's fleece shows a very bold, fine, high frequency crimp with superior density. He sheared 10+ lbs in the 2010 shear.<img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Americanos-Keswick/_resampled/resizedimage200146-americanos-keswick5.jpeg" width="200" height="146" alt="" title=""/>
<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/arriba-rio/">Arrib Rio</a> is a Supreme Champion and Best in Show winner. He also earned Highest Scoring Color in the competitive white category at the Mary Ann English Spin Off at the 2010 Alpaca Ontario Show. Rio has two crias now on the ground, the incredible patterned Lazaro out of SVA Lucky's Number Seven. Breeder Lori Jones commented that Lazaro's fleece is 'crazy' and she'd, 'never seen a cria with so much' fleece. And a female out of Coronoa.
<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Rio/_resampled/resizedimage138132-thumbnail.jpeg" width="138" height="132" alt="" title=""/>Both Herd Sires come with a live birth guarantee and our Quality Cria Guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with the quality of cria produced by mating to Keswick or Rio, just return the cria at weaning and we will refund the stud fee. 
On line bidding commences January 21 and continues until January 23. Both Rio and Keswick can be viewed at the following locations:<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/americanos-keswick/">Americano's Keswick</a>, <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/foundation-herd/arriba-rio/">Arriba Rio</a>, <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/alpacas/signature-herdsires/">Signature Herd Sires</a>. For full details on the stud auction please visit <a href="http://www.alpacaontario.ca/auction/geninfo.html">Alpaca Ontario Stud Auction</a>.
<h2>Don't miss this opportunity to add the genetics of these two superior Machos to your herd. Happy Bidding!!</h2> Sun, 16 Jan 2011 18:34:12 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/two-signature-herdsires-offered-in-2011-ao-stud-auction/ GGA Wishes Everyone a Happy and Prosperous New Year! http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-wishes-everyone-a-happy-and-prosperous-new-year/ <h2>Welcome 2011!</h2>
GGA wishes all of our clients, visitors, friends and family a very Happy New Year. May you experience peace, good health and prosperity and may your dreams, hopes and wishes come true in 2011.
As we enter our second year of operation, it is a time to reflect on all that we have accomplished and plan for what we hope to achieve. We are proud of the progress we have made in the short time that we have been here. We have made numerous friends from around the world - those already in the alpaca industry and those who had never seen nor heard of alpacas. We are thankful for the encouragement and support each one of you have offered.<img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200166-Cola-and-dad-Bandit.jpg" width="200" height="166" alt="" title=""/>
Our herd grew by ten beautiful crias this year. Should fate, good fortune and proper herd management prevail, we expect another 14 beautiful crias in the 2011 birthing season. We are planning to show our new arrivals at various events this year and hope our exisitings award winners will also achieve success in the show ring.
Finally, we look forward to the challenges and rewards of our second year of operation. We will strive to find new ways to meet the unique needs of our clients so that they may experience similar joy, excitement and prosperity that the <a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/about/alpaca-advantage/">Alpaca Advantage</a> can offer
<div class="captionImage right" style="width: 200px;">
Cola and Dad Bandit
</div>
.
Peace. From our home and farm to yours,
Janet and Rachel
 
 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 10:31:58 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-wishes-everyone-a-happy-and-prosperous-new-year/ Happy Holidays from Green Gable Alpacas http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/happy-holidays-from-green-gable-alpacas/ Green Gable Alpacas extends a sincere 'thank you' to all clients, visitors, friends and family for the warm and welcoming reception in PEI and wishes you the warmest of wishes for the Holiday Season
May you enjoy the company and fellowship of those who cross your doors and wish you peace, health and prosperitiy as we say good bye to 2010 and welcome 2011!
Remember that our Web Launch Sales continues until December 31st. Receive 20% off all items. This is a fantastic opportuntiy to give or aquire some of the finest in alpaca products. 
Looking forward to our continued relationships in 2011! Cheers from our family to yours!
 Fri, 24 Dec 2010 10:53:04 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/happy-holidays-from-green-gable-alpacas/ Still Time for Christmas Shopping http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/still-time-for-christmas-shopping/ <h2>It's not too late. </h2>
There is still time to take advantage of our WEB LAUNCH SALE and get some unique gifts for your loved ones this Holiday Season.
Check out our items at the<a href="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/our-retail-shop/"> Milk House Boutique</a> and order now. Shipping via Canada Post and recieve items just in time. 20% Off all items until December 31, 2010. Fri, 17 Dec 2010 10:35:57 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/still-time-for-christmas-shopping/ Halter Training at GGA http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/halter-training-at-gga/ <h2>Halter training of the 2010 crop of crias has begun at Green Gable Alpacas</h2>
<img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200133-december-at-gga-435.jpg" width="200" height="133" alt="" title=""/>This being our first year with crias, we were approaching halter training with anxiety and trepidation. Would we be sucessful? How difficult and how long would it take to earn the trust of our beautiful animals to take to a halter and being led? Well, we need not have worried. As promised by experienced alpaca breeders, halter training is remarkably easy on both handler and handlee. Of course, coaxing with a little grain softens the process .....
Actually, working with our crias is incredibly rewarding and the mutual trust that is built will serve us both well as our animals mature. Now...back to the barn for more.....yah!<img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/_resampled/resizedimage200133-december-at-gga-449.jpg" width="200" height="133" alt="" title=""/> Mon, 13 Dec 2010 10:31:26 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/halter-training-at-gga/ Another Successful Day http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/another-successful-day/ GGA and the Milk House Boutique experienced another successful day at a Fall/Christmas Craft Fair held at the beautiful Miscouche Legion - what a beautiful place.
Met many wonderful people including a couple who just moved here 2 and 1/2 weeks ago from Oakville, Ontario. They were a pleasure to speak to and have shared the same wonderful warm Island welcome that we have experienced. PEI....there really is no place like it!! 
Welcome to PEI Neven and John Wallace!! Hope you can visit the farm soon! Sun, 05 Dec 2010 16:09:44 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/another-successful-day/ GGA gets recognized in the PEI Legisature http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-gets-recognized-in-the-pei-legisature/ A private member statement put forward by Tyne Valley-Linkletter MLA, Paula Biggar in the PEI legislature; acknowledges and congratulates Green Gable Alpacas on our success in the 11 months on the Island.
Members Statement
Paula Biggar
November 30, 2010 
Green Gables Alpacas
Thank you Madame Speaker. 
Janet Ogilvie never dreamed that one day she would call herself an Alpaca farmer. In fact, the Ontario native never thought she would even be a farmer despite her affection for animals and being a veterinarian technician. But life has a way of changing and taking you places you never dreamed of. 
When Janet’s oldest daughter passed away she experienced two of the most difficult years of her life. When she considered returning to work she knew she wouldn’t be able to do it and began to look for a new challenge. She found it when she met a man who vacationed every summer on PEI. He spoke with such love and conviction about PEI, she knew she had found what she was looking for. A friend suggested she consider raising Alpacas and after much research, Janet made the decision to start an Alpaca farm on PEI. 
Janet and her daughter Rachel, sold their home in Ontario and purchased an 11 acre farm in Birch Hill. 11 months have passed and Green Gables Alpacas currently boasts 50 award winning Alpacas,
2 guard llamas, an angora goat, Winnie the pot bellied pig, and Otis the pug. 
When they arrived on PEI Janet and Rachel knew no one but they certainly do now ! They have adjusted well to rural life and their new community . 
Madame Speaker
On September 24 and 25 of this year Green Gable Alpacas opened its barn doors to celebrate National Alpaca Farm Days and their Grand Opening. 
Janet and Rachel are true examples of how a person can face personal tragedy and make the difficult road to recovery by taking the path less travelled. A portion of all sales are donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in memory of Janet’s daughter, Amanda Augustine. 
On behalf of my colleagues, I want to wish Janet and Rachel much success with Green Gable Alpacas and the Milk House Boutique. Their spirit and determination are a great addition to the District of Tyne Valley-Linkletter. 
Thank you Madame Speaker. Wed, 01 Dec 2010 13:00:00 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/gga-gets-recognized-in-the-pei-legisature/ Put a Big Red Ribbon Under the Tree this Year http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/put-a-big-red-ribbon-under-the-tree-this-year/ <img class="left" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Americanos-Keswick/_resampled/resizedimage200251-americanos-keswick4.jpeg" width="200" height="251" alt="" title=""/><img class="right" src="http://www.greengablealpacas.com/assets/alpaca photos/Arriba-Rio/_resampled/resizedimage200190-thumbnail.jpeg" width="200" height="190" alt="" title=""/>
Not just one red ribbon......how about 5 reds and 3 championship ribbons too? Or, consider 3 red ribbons, a Supreme Champion Male, Best in Show and Highest Scoring Color ribbon winner?
Until December 24, we are offering 20% off the stud fees for our Signature Herd Sires. This is one gift that will continue to give long after the Holiday Season. <a href="mailto:jogilvie@greengablealpacas.com">Contact us to book a breeding.</a> Mon, 29 Nov 2010 08:30:33 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/put-a-big-red-ribbon-under-the-tree-this-year/ Unique Gifts http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/unique-gifts/ Warm the hearts and feet of your loved ones this Holiday Season with unique alpaca gifts. 
Our socks and insoles are 'Treats for the Toes' and are sure to please. Or consider one of our fashionable scarves, sweaters or luxury throws. These items are not just warm and soft, they are durable and long lasting. Your friends will love them for many years. 
Best part is, until year end, all items are 20% off in celebration of our Website Launch. There's still time to order and have shipped in time for Christmas. Gift wrapping available on request. Fri, 26 Nov 2010 09:48:38 -0500 http://www.greengablealpacas.com/blog/unique-gifts/