Jill: When did you get your first llamas? How many live with you now?

Julia:1999. We first met llamas at LamaLot in Breezewood, PA. Our son was interested in hiking and camping, and the original idea was that he would head up a hiking business. It didn't fly well the first year, Brian's life took a different turn and I had connected with so many good llama people on the Web that Ken and I decided this was the way our life was going. We have nine here now.

Jill: Who would you say played the biggest part in influencing your decision to have llamas?

I'd been NEAR llamas many times in my life. I remember a HUGE white llama looking down at me; I must have been four and in a stroller with my sister. Turns out we were at the Catskill Game Farm, around 1958ish. I remember the deep dark eyes and gentle look. My hometown, Clifton, NJ hosted the eastern Quarantine Center for years and I remember our classes visiting there and seeing llamas. The Center abutted my high school parking lot, too, and I got to know (another white) a llama very well through the fence. So I'd have to say that the llamas influenced me, more than any person!

Jill: Who would you list as Llama (people) mentors?

Julia: Gretta McIntyre of Firethorn Farm... Linda Grotzinger. Betty Soxman, Alvin and Lance, all the llamafolk on LLAMAS (e-mail list) and in SELR, the list is very long. Oh and that crazy Richard. We won't mention last names here.

Jill: How long have you been involved with llama rescue?

Julia: Also since1999. We got into it almost accidentally when we rescued Sue on a trip to see a 'pack' llama. He had some personality problems and Alvin Bean was a wonderful resource. I couldn't NOT go on and get involved with rescue work. I was office manager for Llama RescueNet for a short time and am now involved with Southeast Llama Rescue, which is a joy always. What a great team!

Jill: Can you share some of the things that have most affected you in doing rescue work?

Julia: The dedication of the rescuers is amazing. Recently three volunteers searched for a lost llama during a hurricane, unasked. We rescued two neglected geldings last month and their response to people has been incredibly satisfying. Sue has had the most effect on me, though. He's gone from near-euthanization to a really nice guy (most days!)

Jill: What 'purpose' do your llamas have, what are they most utilized for?

Julia:Our llamas' "purpose" is to live happily and well. We ask them to hike with us and the guests at The Huckleberry Inn (our Bed and Breakfast), go out and do PR at nursing homes, educational activities, and show off in parades. We generally have a rollicking good time all around. I think it's because we ask who'd like the opportunity. Some will, and the others decline.

Jill: What is your personal Philosophy on breeding?

Julia: We don't breed or sell llamas here. Llama breeders who know what they're doing and have the right motive are usually wonderful people. They watch for conformation, personality, and purpose. I'm more interested in providing homes for the unwanted brothers and sisters who, for whatever reason, are in need.

JIll: Have you any advice for new or prospective llama owners?

Julia: RESEARCH. Visit llamas and their owners. The best time I had as a new owner was sitting in Gretta McIntyre's kitchen over tea and muffins before Scooby chose to come live with us. Find a mentor BEFORE you buy or rescue.

Jill: Other stuff we should know about you?

Julia: Uhhhh... I've been a fulltime dementia nurse for 33 years and Ken has his degree in Theology.

Last year, we were fortunate to visit Bruce and Ruth Armstrong of Wellington Lodge and hike the North York moors of Great Britain. Staying at the Armstrong's cozy B&B and hiking with their llamas, they enlightened us to the joys of inn keeping combined with llama hiking. The dream was on! We now own The Huckleberry Inn Llodge & Llamas here near Indian Lake, PA (south of Central City. I know you all know where THAT is)

Jill: Married how long?

Julia: Going on 32 years, gang.

Jill: Kids?

We have three. Amber is 30, Jesse 28 and Brian 24. All wonderful kids despite their loco parents.

The Huckleberry Inn - Llodge & Llamas
Email: julia2654@aol.com
Visit their website: http://www.huckleberryinnpa.com/

Interview by Jill Edinger for LlamaCrossing.Com