Along the way Dee spotted a place along the roadside that sold fresh, vine ripe tomatoes! So, we each purchased a few! I got some really large sandwich sized ones to surprise Bruno with since he loves a tomato sandwich. It's the end of the season and fall spreading across the area so to still find fresh ripe tomatoes was a rare treat.
After that, we kept going east... knowing we would end up in Vermont sooner or later.
On the way we stopped at an alpaca farm just at closing time. I pointed out that there was someone out there and that we should stop because the sign said tour hours Monday - Friday by chance. Chance always wins out with me because it's unintended and unforced.
After watching someone out in the field with the alpacas we just stood there. I was silently in wonder of what would happen next. The person out in the field noticed us. It turned out to be the owner, Sandy Harder.
Sandy didn't miss a beat.... she immediately welcomed us by saying... "do you want to come see the baby". I thought... well, we'll get a quick peek and continue on our way trying to find Bennington without a map (ha) and back before it gets too dark. To my surprise Sandy gave a very in-depth discussion on alpacas and llamas. Here are a few pictures of alpacas on the farm and of Charlie the llama alpaca mix.
Charlie weighs around 400lbs and came charging, ears back and I thought ready to spit... 
so I sneakily took a few steps back. Come to find out Charlie wasn't charging in rage or anger...
He wanted a hug from his 'mom', Sandy. 
They have a unique bond... and if you visit she'll tell you all about it as I don't want to spoil the mystery of their bond by telling you everything! 
And we got to go into her shop too where she sells hand made alpaca hats, gloves, socks, vests, etc.
You can even buy alpaca yarn to make your own creations or get some for friends or relatives that make their own creations! Sandy has adult alpaca yarn and also baby alpaca yarn. Sometimes people are allergic to clothing items made with wool and they use alpaca wool as an alternative.
Sandy's place is located at 12 South State Line Road in North Bennington, Vermont. You can also find her online at shaftsburyalpacas.com. If you visit her tell her that you read about her here from Cheri.
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