Peru Orders

As I mentioned earlier, Brian and I will be visiting my sister in Peru this summer.  Emily originally went down two years ago with a group from Iowa State and had such an amazing experience that she decided to return on her own for six months last year.  Staying with a family in Arequipa, she spent most of her time working with a group of women in the struggling community of Alto Cayma, just outside the city. 

These women make their living from knitting—mostly alpaca wool—and they do a beautiful job.  Emily’s main role has been helping the group network with retailers in the U.S., so they have a consistent market for their goods.  As the many friends and family who received knitted items for Christmas last year can attest, my family, alone, bought half their inventory!  Several area stores also sold the products, including Worldly Goods in Ames.  Before my family (minus me) went down to Arequipa last summer, they took orders from people who wanted to purchase some of the ladies’ work; now that Brian and I are visiting, we’re going to do the same. 

So here’s your chance to get your Christmas shopping done early!  Just click on the link to Emily’s flickr account and peruse the photos of many of the items.  

They make gorgeous scarves:

and you can choose custom color combinations for classic designs:

If there is something you were hoping to see that’s not pictured, just ask because we made several special requests.  For example, a favorite last year were glittens (mittens that fold off into gloves) in Cyclone colors.  Another great piece that’s not pictured is a baby alpaca blanket; they’re incredibly soft and make great wedding gifts. 

We’re leaving July 2^nd, and we’ll be taking orders any time until we depart.  You don’t pay until the products arrive (prices are listed on the web site, or just ask me), and we’ll bring them back and make deliveries when we return.  Email with any orders/questions at lindsey.jungman@gmail.com and I’ll contact Emily if I’m unable to answer something.  These products really do make wonderful presents because not only are they beautiful and soft, but you know you’re helping someone make a better future in the process.  Start shopping! J