Day Trip to Mexico

Mexico, MO, that is.

This past weekend was Alpaca Farm Days. We were pleasantly surprised that the alpaca farm we were visiting also had a U-pick apple orchard with dwarf apple trees.  We used to go apple picking in Peoria each year on Labor Day, but that orchard was sold and the new owners didn't allow U-pick.  That was about 3 years ago, so this was quite a treat!

The drive there was only about 45 minutes, which included 3 miles of gravel roads.  Just before we arrived, we saw this trying to cross the road.  Papi and JT got out to see it up close, and it waited patiently while they took pictures before it continued across the road and into the weeds.

This is only about 1/4 - 1/3 of the length of the snake - it was about 5-6 feet long!

This male alpaca seemed friendly with people, but apparently was mean to the other male alpacas, and too friendly with the females!

She was scared to get closer, but really wanted a picture with him.

This alpaca wasn't sure it wanted to be lead around in a circle.

It had gotten used to the lead when it was JT's turn.