Thursday, January 10, 2008

Random thoughts

I have been slammed at work not only because it it busy, but also because I am teaching a new recruit. Because police work is my career, I have to talk about it on my blog. My recruit came to me about 6 days ago. His over all skills are good, but his report writing needs so much help. I had a English teacher in High School who said I didn't have insight and significance. Boy could she see me now!!

I have made a few close co-workers aware of Stoneberg Alpacas, LLC and truly believe they will be future clients. I by no means know all about alpacas, but do know that getting in this business was a very wise choice. My friends at Alpacas at Tucker Creek www.alpacadigest.com and Northwest Alpacas www.alpacas.com have been very helpful with all my questions and lack of knowledge. Both farms are truly my guide into success.

Because Don Julio Barreda was "The Man" I wonder myself if I will ever create Alpacas that reach the "20 and 20" that he talked about. Guess we'll see! How about a starting goal of 20 and 15!! Is that attainable? I'm confident it is.

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

2007 Taxes!

Well it appears Section 179 does in fact help with taxes. Without giving too much away, I will be getting a return of 5 figures. I have my paperwork very organized anticipating the IRS to take notice. I don't like to be negative, but realistically my 2007 tax return is 20 times more that 2006!

I've also been busy looking at a few properties in Washington County. I've found 1.42 acres on Laurelwood about a 15 min drive to work. There are a few issues to consider, one of them being the remoteness. Although it really isn't that far, I do consider it the country. However, I must also add the property is what I can afford. Start small and work my way to big!! I learned that lesson the hard way not too long ago!

This Friday, Jan 11th, I am heading to Astoria to check on Brandy and to meet with Peggy and run through my 2007 taxes. As mentioned above, it appears a nice return is in order which will go directly back into Stoneberg Alpacas, LLC.

It's very hard for me at times to imagine how successful Stoneberg Alpacas, LLC will be. Will I sell a lot of alpacas? What if I don't sell any? What if in 2008 I get all boys? I have prepared myself for these outcomes, but also am driven to succeed. I do realize that alpacas are not an over night get rich scheme, but do understand breding is important for my success.

As I have made trips to Northwest Alpacas, I have observed Stud males that stand out... Impact, Zegna, Glacial Storm and Soprano I am hooked on. Also Brunello was at the farm last week transitioning to the next shareholder that he belongs to. I will breed with him again.

So as I look at 2007, I am glad I took the plunge into Alpacas. I have heard many times before that without some risk there is no reward. I don't believe Alpacas are a risk and I definitely can see a huge reward.

In 2008 I'm looking at the following breeding schemes:

1. Brandy=Sun Tzu
2. Marshmellow Cream=Soprano or Zenga
3. Aspire=Bogart or Juan Pablo
4. Pearl= Brunello or Gallent Deed
5. Mocha=Glacial Storm

And I'm also looking to purchase an animal(s) due in May and August. 5 isn't enough!! :-)