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AlpacaNation Q&A with Mystik Keys
John and Audrey Aldewereld & Wayne, Marie and Nicholas Kosa
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PO Box 39, Chippewa Lake, OH 44215
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216.255.1899
AlpacaNation: Tell us about yourself...
Mystik Keys: Mystik Keys is a family farm focusing on financial sustainability between generations. Like families years ago, we are dedicated to living, working and supporting each other. Wayne & Marie have been married for 34 years. They have three driven children. Wayne & Marie also are succesful business owners in the autobody and rental industry.
Audrey & John have been married 5 years. They are committed to raising their young children with the utmost care and respect. In a world changing rapidly, they hope to raise gentlemen who will be global citizens. John is currently enjoying a succesful career as an Executive Chef and Audrey has decided to focus on the new family business. Her consulting and management skills in previous positions will come in handy while molding Mystik Keys.
Nicholas is a true Renaissance Man. With various skills already, he continues to stretch his limits & grow. He is dedicated fully to becoming an Alpaca farmer for the 21st Century!
AlpacaNation: How did you become interested in alpacas?
Mystik Keys: About 10 years ago, we started noticing these interesting animals on our routine Sunday drives to visit family. Over time, we watched as one farm became 3 and a handful of animals became 100! Nicholas actually tried to convince Wayne many years back to investigate this opportunity. Time and other responsibilities prohibited further discussion.
Finally in 2005, we decided to find a better way to live. With the demands of the current economy, society and every changing commerce, it was evident that a change was needed. The Alpaca industry became our future dream as we investigated the possibilities.
We are truly greatful for all the assistance, friendly conversations and honest people we met along the way. It was their grace and inner peace that convinced us that our dream could be our present day reality.
AlpacaNation: What advice would you give to those just getting started in the industry?
Mystik Keys: Know yourself and develop your short and long term goals. Many companies are committed to creating the "ever impressive" mission statement or company vision. There is merit in doing this for yourself. Once you determine your goal in this industry, you will be able to swiftly make decisions, scout out the best animals for your herd and be happy with life. After all, being happy and satisfied in life will bring you much success and satisfaction with your choices.
AlpacaNation: What sets your farm and herd apart from others in the industry?
Mystik Keys: Our mission is to build a sustainable business grounded in spirit. We are all dedicated to refining our spirits and bringing this quality to our business. There are many reasons to start a business, choose a product and execute a plan. Our reason was to improve our spirit by finding a product that will enhance our spirit and allow us to execute our plan spiritually. What better choice in product than the Alpaca! After all these animals were roaming the Mystikal Andes Mountains, clothing the Incan Royalty and they continue to provide sustainable living for several farmers. There is a mystikal quality in their eyes and hearts, which we know will lead us to our goal for spiritual sustainability.
AlpacaNation: Any embarrassing moments you would like to share?
Mystik Keys: In an attempt to get some photos of our animals, three of us braved the open pasture to get a handle on our herdsire. As the sun was shining, we chased the animals around the pen trying to get the herdsire in question. All was well when we had him in the corner and with one move, slip! Down went Wayne right in the mud, while Sir Isaac raced right by him. We laughed at the site, knowing that in time we will become experts but right now what novices we must look like to these animals.
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