April 22, 2017

Clifford Cliff Tops, our most senior llama, leads his team up the last leg before reaching camp.

Good Afternoon Readers,
     The weekend is here and so is some interesting weather.  We've been in and out of the clouds much of the last two days, but temperatures continue to feel mild.  Our high temperature yesterday tapped 59 degrees and our overnight low was a moderate 47.  We received just above a half inch of rain last night, and about a third of an inch the day prior.  We've already experienced the lightest of sprinkles this afternoon, but skies are clearing with grand views to the north.
     According to the forecast, we don't expect this to last. Starting now through Sunday night, this region is under a Flash Flood Watch, with rain percentages expected to ramp up about the same time we roll out the soup and cornbread.  This storm system has the potential to dump as much as four inches of rain, which is an overwhelming amount of water in a brief period.  If this turns out to be the case, expect a lot of water to be running off of this mountain, with creeks and waterfalls appearing in places you may not have thought possible.  Please dress appropriately for these conditions if you choose to summit while this system moves through.  Mid-cut boots, gaiters, waterproof shells, and a change of clothes at the top will serve you well!  Temperatures are also expected to be below average the next couple of days.  We'll see how it affects the type of precipitation we receive.  Just because we've had enough of seeing the white stuff, doesn't mean it can't happen again.

     We've had to alter our llama trips this week on account of schedules and now the weather.  Bonnie led the boys today and we were sure glad to see them.  If you've been up in recent days, you may have noticed they all look a bit thinner and significantly more beautiful.  That's because they just received their annual sheering and veterinary visit.  We simply can't thank Missy and the team from Lake Loudon enough for all of the care and guidance that our favorite large animals receive throughout the year.
     Since we're on the topic of llamas, how about we feature another one of our fantastic and fuzzy team members...HUEY!  Despite his stature, natural good looks, and youthful facial features, Huey is actually one of our oldest llamas and experienced veterans.  He is also easier to distinguish among the various brown llamas currently in rotation.  Huey has always had a unique faux hawk running between those long ears, but now that he's been recently sheered, he's rocking an awesome rat tail!  My vote is that he should keep the look, but Mrs. Northrup feels otherwise. What do YOU think?
     Have a great weekend, and come see us when you can!

Huey, with his faux hawk and rat tail, possesses some rock star qualities. Surely Huey Lewis and the News would approve!