Merry Christmas to you and Yours!

This will be my last message before the Holiday arrives. I hope it finds you safe, warm and serene. Life in the Pacific Northwest is just coming back to normal. Without power since Thursday night, and with temperatures dropping into the 20's, our household was effectively camping at home. I guess that is one of the tradeoffs for the rural lifestyle we so love.

It was a good time to put our AFCNA throws to the test! Not only did they take the chill off lounging around in front of the fireplace, but they worked wonderfully thrown across the top of our queen bed! Cold outside, cool inside, but toasty warm under the covers. I'm not so sure about having to make coffee on the barbeque though.

We got power back about 3 hours ago, so everything is looking good at this point.

As I get caught up on my emails I note one from Mendy. She says that UPS can only guarantee delivery by Christmas if orders are placed before Wednesday, and then only if 3 day shipping is specified. If you are looking for any last minute alpaca goodies, please call Mendy toll free (1-877-859-0172) before then.

For stocking suffers, you might consider one of our hand knit scarves. Sporting the co-op's America's Alpaca™ label, they are available in a variety of colors, and in two patterns - cable or zig-zag knit. These scarves are stylish and yet utilitarian. Soft and warm, they will compliment almost any outfit.

We want to thank you for your continued support of the Cooperative. Thanks to you, this has been a very successful Holiday season. Your patronage helps us all in strengthening our Cooperative. We look forward to an exciting and productive year in 2007!

Until then, remain safe, warm and happy, and have a wonderful Holiday!

John Merrell, President
Alpaca Fiber Cooperative of North America, Inc.