Summer 2019

Wow, have I ever been a slacker here. It has been an interesting Spring and early Summer at this farm.

First, we are downsizing BIG time. This coming September 7th, there is to be an auction here. We will sell whatever we won't be taking with us, and then once that's done, this farm is to be auctioned off. It appears my husband decided this, even if I don't agree.  And that's that.  Sadly, I've been sorting thru all of the items gathered over the years. Tough choices as to what to take and what will be for sale.

Many many memories in this "stuff" of mine. Some good, some not so good. I shall miss my wonderful hill at the top of the farm. Many's the time I have walked up there and felt as though I could see the whole world. Missing the mountain view already.

 This past April, I lost my last Percheron. Bojangles hindquarters had gotten so weak that there were times I feared he might stumble and go down. Never wanting to see that happen, we chose a day for him to move onto the 'Summerland'. He would be with his best friend there, and there wouldn't be any more pain for him.  The farm's vet arrived and I'd already planned where he would be buried. Gently he slipped away in total peace... Bo was ready to leave this earth. After it was all quiet, Briana and I walked to where he was laying so she could understand.  Horses know all too well about death... and I wanted to allow her to accept that he was gone. She's the only critter left here now on 4 legs. We stood beside him and she sniffed his neck a little, and another time. Then she was ready to leave, so we walked back to her pasture. No calls, no running like one who didn't understand it all.  She quietly went back to grazing, occasionally looking up the hill to where her pal was. And that was it. She has asked me where he was and I explained it to her again. Eventually, she was fine with it all. I thought perhaps to get another horse for her to be pals with. She hasn't fussed at all.  So perhaps she is independent enough to live with just me and those goofy chickens as pasture pals?  It has been good so far.  I know I'll miss him- all of his silly antics and how gentle and loving he was.

 Slowly but surely, I am marching towards a full retirement; I will be boarding my 'short horse' with someone I hope will care for her as well as I do, and that will be that.  The husband says we're going to do some traveling- but somehow I don't see that happening much.

If you have nothing to do on September 7th, come over and see what we have.

Snow- blech

2.26.19

I'm baaaccccccckkkk.  So far we've had 4 snows in 2019. Thank goodness, nothing really to amount to. But is sure has snowed- the last one was during the Polar Vortex and that was quite simply COLD. Bitter cold. Being on the East Coast, we have wonderful humidity that doesn't go away even in winter. So- one goes out to the barn, gets busy working along and all of a sudden, one is sweaty. Hahaha- one better hadn't be still for long or one will be Very cold. Layers are the way to go but eventually, they don't even help much.

Everyone came thru that bitter cold just fine, thank goodness. I stepped on keeping a lot of water available for the animals and we didn't lose electric power!

Now we have semi-melted mud and when it freezes, life is hard.  Walking is hard too.

So here I am, impatiently waiting for Spring to arrive, knowing full well, March still has to be dealt with. Just one more month and it'll be getting warmer again.  YAYYYY!!!!

I hope your winter has been easy to deal with- ours has- so far.

Here are a couple of photos I took- it seems the two  house cats LOVE to drink from toilet. Smudge, my black cat, didn't realize it was possible until Dexter showed him how it was done.

ewww, February

2.12.19

 What a winter it has been here. A LOT of mud, slippery slopes, and very dirty horses are all a part of winter but it seems there has been a lot of it. Oh- then the mud freezes around the ankle-deep hoof prints in the pastures and they quickly become mini potholes for we humans to fall over. I am not sure which I hate the most- the boot-sucking mud or those little 'tripsters'. Either one makes life a little more miserable to deal with.  I bet the horse people reading understand how very terrifying it is to the horse when a human falls down...
< winks>

Today, it is snow to contend with. Not much but enough to create a wonderland out of the farm. That is if one ignores the icy patches...

Our farm has slowly been downsized to just two horses by now. The husband and I decided last year that come this Spring, the farm would be for sale and we are planning on moving into a much smaller place.  Sadly enough, I don't think my chickens will be able to move with me. :(    I love my chickens but sheeesh- can't see them living with neighbors all around. 

The ring is below- can you tell my Percheron gelding has been in it?  Just about all of my driving cones have been knocked over. Hahaha- it is seemingly HIS job to knock them over and he does it really well

 Briana is a hoot lately. She's my American Draft Pony and reminds us so much of my Percheron mare, Evie.  Same look, same personality, and spunk.   I love her a lot and can't see life without her in it. When I lead her out to her pasture for the day, she's head's up, looking all over for something 'new'. If she finds it, we must head over to check it out. Lately, it's been an old green tarp. She'll sniff it, and push on it with her face in checking it out. Never has she been unsure of checking things out because I have never allowed her to be scared or hurt.  Trust is a glorious thing between a human and a horse. Lynn used to trust me explicitly and would give almost anything a checkout or a try. I'm hoping my pretty pony develops the same kind of trust.

There have been SO many untrusting horses

in my life and each one has belonged to someone else. Not ever has a horse learned fear or confusion when it was "owned'' by me. It's easy to develop and is wonderful to watch happen.  Sadly when the horse goes back to its rightful owner, and THEY have not learned the things needed to continue, it reverts back to how it was before.  Lynn was mine from the time she was 15 months old and hadn't been mistreated too much by her former owner, so she was great fun. Briana had had two owners and the first one really destroyed her trust in people when it came to having her ears handled. Still, she isn't 100% trusting about that, sadly enough. I just don't understand why people don't take some time and show their animals that clippers, etc will not hurt them... I guess because they either have little education in all that or just don't care. Forcing is easier and faster. At what cost to the equine though?

Below is my little smarty pants  :)

WHY do we continue to do it?

1.10.2019

Vent:

 So for years- decades actually- I have tried so hard to be nice to others. Sure, when I hurt so badly I can barely walk, there's a tendency to get crabby. There have been times when I have not said anything just to see it happen over and over again. Sometimes we horsewomen hurt to the point that we wonder "why".

Why do we keep trudging forward?

Why do we keep putting up with bad pay clients?

Why do we continue dealing with people who ask so many questions (yes, some over and over again) and never seem to absorb the answers?

Why do we put up with the supposed know-it-alls that have it oh so wrong but continue to teach students or train horses in abusive methods incorrectly?             ( the worst is that others actually believe them)

Why do we deal with fractious horses (their people too) just to have money coming into the barn?

Why do we head to the barn every single day - in knee-deep snow, in the 100-degree summer heat and springtime's torrential downpours?

 WHY?

Lately, I have once again opened this barn to those in the area who really want to learn how to be around horses in the correct manner. It began with inquiries from various people who when they found out that they (oh my gosh) would have to help at the barn in order to learn more. To me, it's an exchange of help (yes- stalls) and education. The 'barter system" if you may.

It began alright- but slowly but surely things dwindled down to the ever-popular " sorry" over and over again. I did my part in teaching all about horses (within a beginner's level) Finally it was enough and I took the option away. No more "sorry"- no more ''oh this or that happened" on the morning of the self-appointed day they should have been here to help.

And so it is over. I am finished dealing with people who haven't the smarts to realize that we barn owners/managers have needs too...

A need to be paid on time, a need to have a possible day off, a need to be able to discuss things with clients and not watch/ listen to their excuses, or 'hissy fits' about how terrible we are to even ask to have things accomplished, paid or just to stop gossiping.

Never do /did I want to run my barn or any others as far as that goes with the proverbial Iron Fist. There have been some managers like that and it bothered me. Sadly- now I understand their 'whys'.

I know there are many barn managers out there who have had bad pay boarders. Those people who don't seem to care whether they get their board or monthly lessons paid. Little do they know (or perhaps they DO know and ignore it??) that a farm is run by their prompt payments- each time, every time. I wonder how many would complain about a board being broken or a fence post lose? Do they ever consider that their late (or not at all) payments are used for that sort of thing? It is very expensive to keep a barn and farm repaired and safe for animals of any kind. We, horsewomen and men, take in other's animals to care for because we love doing it. Not "just for the money"- but it costs money to keep things safe and in good repair. Feed, hay, bedding, electric and more. Those who make late payments or just never bother are the ones who will be the first to complain or gossip to others who will listen about how bad it is where they board or ride.

And so it goes and here's one better educated, willing to help horsewoman 
who is closing those doors.

Christmas Eve 2018

12.24.18

 As I sit here smelling the pumpkin pies baking in the oven, and my husband snoring as he snoozes to some of his favorite TV programs, ( I call it watching TV w/ one's eyes shut...) I realize how blessed we really are.

We have a cozy little house that keeps us warm in winter snows and cool when it's hot enough to fry the proverbial egg outside. A wonderful strong barn that prevents winter winds from blowing inside, freezing everything solid (so long as I remember to shut the doors, that is). Pastures that look brown with mud all over give me a promise of soft new grasses growing strong, come Spring.

Thinking of the year gone past, there have been some wonderful moments and some awful times too. All in all, I think the good and bad have balanced themselves out just fine. I lost a lifelong friend that I cherished deeply, but losing her brought along more firm plans for our future.

Remembering Christmas's past, I find I miss the glorious family moments that will never happen again, but others have taken their places. So many presents, so much laughter, and joy. So much love. Times gone by... Kids are grown up and have their own families- scattered all over the country. 

Happily for me, no more frantic shopping, decorating the house, making sure there will be plenty of food for family gatherings. Now, Christmas is a relaxed time with just us two. I managed to do probably 90% of my shopping online, thank goodness. Remembering Christmas's when there was no money available and having to create gifts for loved ones. Some were absolutely horrid, but I never realized that until many years later when I saw some of those gifts.  Oh lordy.

 Tomorrow will be kind of a normal day for us but for the gifts purchased and the grand dinner we have planned.  Always being one for not a lot of fuss n' bother, I like a peaceful day. I have always had 'country' like celebrations but for a few years when I was expected to have the house decorated by some designer to perfection. No thanks, I like pine boughs instead of the fake stuff... homemade decorations on the Christmas tree. Those mean more than the well-balanced balls hanging in the correct places so all is perfect. I DO give in and have a fake tree- but it's as realistic as possible.  Cutting a wonderful tree down and sticking it in ones' house isn't very kind to me. So I leave the trees in the woods and use a "pretend" one.  It's just as pretty and no one has to die because of it.

I suppose there'll be no snow here for this Christmas. Chilly, but no snow, thank goodness. We are to the point where a big snow storm just means harder work for the people and animals too. I do hope, however, the sunshine peeks out.

So, here's to everyone having a stupendous Christmas Day 

and to all those who celebrate in other beliefs,

May your celebrations be filled with love, peace, and joy.

                            Merry Christmas with love,

                                        from all of us at

  WoodFinn Farm. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOlasA9rycI  

The City Husband

11.7.18

I was telling someone of a story concerning my husband and was told that I really needed to write it down. So- here goes.

We met in 2001. He was from the city, and I, a country woman. Total opposites and we both realized that each of our passions were important enough to learn about and accept. We got hitched in 2003, and pretty much have lived 'happily ever after'.

The next thing was buying a farm in Pennsylvania and it was his first time being a country husband. He did really well and I thought it was wonderful that he loved me enough to give this way of life a try. "wow, it is dark at night out here, isn't it?"

He'd hadn't much experience with animals but for the typical city types- dogs,a car or two. Nothing having to do with horses though. I heard comments about how he'd never noticed how many horses there were around his city, and how nice they had looked. Ha- he had no idea...

Life was going along great until I woke up to a rather odd note for me. I read it and couldn't quite understand it.
                                                  "The cat stole my shoe"
  Oooooooooooooookayyyyyy. I didn't think much more about it until later on that day when I found 'the shoe' under the rocking chair. ( at least I think that's the right area- it's been a while you see) When he got home from work, I heard the rest of the story. The shoes were the ones he'd be wearing to work, and at 6 AM, only finding one didn't bode so well with him. We had gotten a new 6-7-month-old kitten/cat whose favorite game was stealing various items. Apparently, the cat had a grand time playing with shoestrings and had dragged the shoe across the living room... thus 'stealing' it.  The shoe was replaced and guess who was a little more careful about those shoes?

Then another time, I don't remember if it was a weekday or a weekend, but he gets up earlier than I do. He does his best to keep things quiet in the house which I adore about him. I'm able to sleep in a little that way. One morning I was awakened to something pounding on the floor. It wasn't in the bedroom and stopped after a few pounds, so I went back to sleep. Later on that morning, I happened to remember to ask him about the noise. Turns out that the now, TWO cats had caught a mouse. Of course, one had stolen it from the cat who'd done all the hard work to catch it. Cats have a terrible way of torturing their prey before finally killing it, and that's just what was happening that morning. ( ugh)  The husband decided he'd pick it up and toss it in the woods or somewhere so there wouldn't be gross mouse stuff on the floor. Ha- it turns out the mouse wasn't quite dead! So, he grabbed the thing most certain to do it in- my kitchen broom!
 ''Smack, Smack, SMACK "  Finally the mouse wasn't moving- no wait, yes it was.  "SMACK, SMACK!!"  He figured it was dead and he figured right. What mouse would survive that anyways? No more mouse and we had a good laugh over it all.

There have been many more husband stories but I am testing the waters here to see how he likes reading them again. ( in public < winks>)

Chicken Tales

10-29-18

 Yes- they continue...<winks>

 As you remember, my favorite breed of chicken is the Lavender Orpington. They are friendly, lay huge light brown eggs consistently and are a lovely light lavender color. They come across to a non-chicken person as a smokey grey, but when the sunlight hits them 'just right', one can see the lavender shading on them.

I found some Ummm, teenager aged Lavenders for sale and bought 7 of them.  They were kept in one of the stalls in the barn because I was tired of finding my hens destroyed or just gone thanks to fox, mink and other nasty little critters.       ( good grief- there's SO much forest and open fields around here, I'd think they'd find easier food, but nooooooooooo)  Understanding completely that they too must eat, I didn't want my chickens to become a feast for anything from the woods or fields. And so it goes- and so they grew! Below is "SamIam'' checking out the water leaking from a hose...

I'd let them wander about the barn and outside if they wanted, but they were not that brave. A gal who helped out here, tempted them outside by dropping cracked corn on the asphalt for them. That worked great and it wasn't long before they'd go outside the barn. Not very far though... I would call them and they'd all come 'a-running'- just not far from the barn. Eventually, they got brave enough to go out around the horse trailer and areas there. They loved eating the grass, looking for bugs and worms like the other hens always have.

Ending up with FOUR roosters and three hens, it wasn't long before I had to find homes for three of the roosters as that was too many! At any rate, they were all getting along fine having been raised together, so there wasn't a huge rush to sell the three. Luckily I sold one hen and one rooster to a friend.  That left me with 6. Three hens and three roosters.

In the meantime, the little flock of lavender chickens was brave enough to travel on the sides of the barn and met the older hens. The older girls really had not much to do with the young studs wandering about crowing their darned heads off. Basically, they ignored them and went about their chicken lives. When it was time to bring them back inside the safety of the barn they chose to not want to. Heck, so many worms n' bugs outside, comparing the barn w/ just boring old chicken food- well it was a simple choice. We shall be OUTSIDE chickens!
 (at least that's how it came across to me, the chicken herder.) They are around 5-6 months old now and more independent.

One late morning a few days ago, they all came running down the aisle like the devil itself was after them. If you've ever seen chickens run, you'll understand when I type that they remind me of a bunch of little old grey men running as fast as they can, with their hands in their pockets. I stood there chuckling at them all. Convincing 7 semi-adult chickens to now go into their stall for the rest of the day isn't an easy thing. It consists of much arm flapping, walking behind, singing the "chicken song" to keep them all moving forward and towards the open door. Every once in awhile, there will be a maverick. She/ He will turn around and quick as a fox run the other way. "Divide and Conquer"? Towards the front of the barn, or even into an empty stall, hoping the 'chicken herder' didn't notice. Ummmmmm, yeah, I noticed. The rest of them hopped into their stall and hoping that they would remain in there, I herded the maverick back to her/his stall. Most of the time it works really well.

However. When I did a chicken head count, there were just 5. Hmmmmmmm........  Just as I thought I'd better begin trekking about the barn, I heard a distant crow. There were no neighbors with chickens any longer, so I knew where the one maverick had gone. He was wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy across one of the pastures, yep, crowing his fool head off. Ok- so I admit that basically, they are 'eraser brains' but, come on. Why was he so far away from his friends? I guess we'll never know as he sure wasn't talking much.  Crowing, sure, but no good reason as to the ''why'' of his walkabout.

Ever try to herd one fast rooster any place that he didn't want to go? Oh, it's great fun.  Here n' there, scooting under one fence, into another pasture, then back again. Up n' down the hills, under fencing, over to the big mares and FINALLY towards the barn. Ha- I didn't have to do my walk that day; I'd already done it!

Once 'SamIam' saw the barn, he began walking towards it and down the aisle.
 (whew) Then and I saw that little eraser brain thinking " oh no- I didn't want to come here. I shall turn around and run".   I caught him under the lawn rake I had, picked him up and carried him down the aisle to his "chicken house''.  < sigh >  I hope he was embarrassed at being delivered to the others in such an un-manly fashion, but it didn't seem to phase him much. He hasn't gone exploring much since. Thank goodness!

These are my hens-" Princess, Micah and Tillie's'' butt.  One of their many excursions down the barn aisle.

Evie's Dream

When Evie was just a youngster- around 2 years old, she had her own ideas on how life was going to be for her.  Evie was my filly that was born here in Pennsylvania.  There had been other foals but they had all been born in Maryland.  Evie ( if you like- go back and see the stories about her on this blog) was to be something spectacular and I had high hopes for her. She was born on a cold windy April morning and I missed seeing her born. Her mama, Katie, kept it a secret so learning Evie was finally here was a great way to begin my day!

She was smart, funny and so incredibly brave.  I loved her with every part of me, even when she stepped on my little toe one day. Evie was my hard-luck filly though. Something was forever going wrong with her. First, she was so tall at birth, it was hard for her to get up alone. For three days, I helped her by giving her butt a boost up. It worked and soon she was doing it all by herself.

Later on, as she grew taller and taller, she suffered from OCD.

( https://www.acvs.org/large-animal/osteochondritis-dissecans-horses) This caused her a LOT of discomfort in her stifles especially. I am sure later on in her life she'd have developed arthritis in her stifles, but I was never to find out. Evie was 18 hands tall as a three-year-old- all arms n' legs, as they say.  Slowly she learned how to handle her great height and became

so elegant in the way she moved.

When she was a little more than three years old, she made a mistake and upon rolling in some dirt, she rolled over- right into that horrid high tensile fencing. We had plans to replace the next spring. She ripped heavy-duty staples from the posts and cracked three of the posts in getting free. Her left hock in front was a disaster. She was stall bound for almost 3 months and in a protective wrap for another two or so. But- she healed and did such a good job that her scar was barely able to be seen. Evie was perfect whenever a veterinarian or myself had to re-do her bandage. She stood still as she could. 

What an incredible mare she was becoming, if she could only stop having problems!

Sadly we never got to go to a show as one day when she was just 7, she got sick. Taking no chances, I called my equine veterinarian to let her know Evie had a bit of a colic, and that I would let her know if it got bad enough for her to come out. The next morning, Evie was just "off"... not really wanting to eat, and well, just not happy. I called my vet. again, asking her to come out. After checking vital signs, etc, she decided to check Evie rectally. Perhaps something would tell us how to treat her. Evie was tranquilized and checked out. 

I was told that she had an ''Anterior Enteritis''. I wasn't sure what that was and my vet wanted to have us take Eve to a horse hospital. She tubed my mare and there was a good bit of fluid return from Evie. I said that I had to discuss it all with my husband, and would let her know soon.

That afternoon I did a lot of reading and learning about Evie's problem and found that with big Percheron mares, the chances of survival were not good, even at an equine hospital and proper care. The chances of her developing Laminitis were huge and most likely would have to have a carefully chosen diet for the rest of her life. IF she even made it. I couldn't do that to my wonderful mare. I loved her enough to let her go so she could dance in the meadows of heaven. The next morning, my love was gone.  It was a heartbreaking morning and one I never hope to face again.

Later on that day, I remembered a dream a dear friend of mine told me that Evie had told her. 

That ''one day, Evie and I would go to horse shows and win all kinds of big fancy ribbons. That Evie's "mom" (me) would put a red harness with diamonds on her. I would then hitch her to a bright red cart with sparkles on it. I'd wear red gloves covered in 'diamonds' and we'd win the biggest ribbon Ever at that show!!!"

Sadly, she never got to have that dream come to fruition, but I still get a chuckle when I think of it and "Herself".

I miss her.

Having Fun !

I found this blog in my travels online and thought I'd share it with you all  :

https://annablakeblog.com/2018/10/05/finding-your-horses-sense-of-humor/

This gal has it to a perfection-  finding your horses' sense of humor.  They all have one, believe it or not.  I don't know how many times I have fallen for my horses' jokes. Now, jokes from a horse sure aren't like our jokes. If you really pay attention, you'll get to witness a few.

Imagine the younger horse playing with cones set up in a ring for driving... I had a Percheron colt who would find fun in pushing mine onto icy patches, then watching me attempt to retrieve them. I swear I could hear him laughing. He was also the one who would pick those cones up with his mouth, and innocently wait until the flighty Thoroughbred mare would wander by.  Wham! Across that fence that cone would fly, usually landing very close to her. Of course, she'd flip out, thinking that it was raining driving cones. I loved seeing that colt's very amused face as he watched her antics.

I've been told and read that a horse never 'lies'. HA! I have had a few who did. My Percheron mare, Lynna, would Big time. If she didn't care for my choice in hay for her, she'd push and shove it into a big pile underneath her feed tub. Then I'd hear her soft nickers to me that Lynn didn't get her hay that morning. I knew darn well I'd given her hay. ''No, I hadn't- I have none at all"... from Lynn.  Finally, after trying to ignore her pleas of starvation, I'd give her some. There was the original hay pile that she didn't think was quite good enough, stuffed up under her feed tub! The same hay and she'd happily be eating it. < sigh >

There was an old Appaloosa mare here who wouldn't go out if she thought it was too hot or cold out. I always let her out loose in the barn area so she could graze in peace. She'd walk to the aisle doorway, look both ways, testing the weather and if it wasn't to her liking, she would turn around and head back to her stall. This dear soul would whinny loudly when she was done eating also.  She and her old friend, Chance, would be down at the gate nearest the house at dinner time- no matter what. She would sometimes whinny loudly for us to know it was time for dinner at the barn.  There were times when those two were early- around 1 or two in the afternoon. She'd be calling and calling until I came out of the door. Well, she'd try to convince me it really was late afternoon and time for a little something to eat.  Chance would stand there all but chuckling...

There have been horses in my life that were hat thieves... especially the ponies. Shoelace un-tiers  ( haha- is that even a word??). There have been some who liked to get a hold of belt loops on jeans and move their humans. Some loved to unbuckle Farriers' leather aprons oh so innocently...

So you see, horses can have a wonderful sense of humor, so long as their people don't put them down for having one. For ages, I've enjoyed watching horses play jokes and remember getting a soaking from an equine mouth holding a hose that was supposed to be filling up a water tub outside or to check outside at night and find that someone with very mobile lips has turned the lights on in the barn AGAIN. Pay attention to your horse or the horses around you-you will find they are quite funny.

 Don't try to fool them by putting on a happy face when you're in an awful mood too. They know sometimes before you'll get in the barn and word spreads so fast. Life with the equine mind can be wonderfully interesting!

Trying to hire help

8.20.18

I have had to hire and sadly, fire people in the past. Running a horse farm is hard work and sometimes it is just nice to have a day off. Thus my wanting to hire someone to come to the farm and make life easier so I can have a day off. Most of the time, horse people don't have days off. Most times they have no insurance coverage, and they have to work when it is miserably cold, hot as Hades; when it is snowing with a blowing cold wind. They deal with all kinds of weather and all kinds of horse- and yes, all kinds of people. So many folks are not suited to working in a barn; not suited to handling 1200 - 2000 pound equines of all temperaments and personalities.  Haha- believe me- I have met all of them at one time or another.

Here in central Pennsylvania, there's not many who have enough true horse experience to work in a barn full of horses. They're either totally uneducated, scared, or angry at a horse trying to be bossy. Or- they know it all.

There ARE some wonderful people who are worth paying though- but sadly in this area, there are few. I have had to accept someone who tells me they "have horse experience" but haven't a clue about a lame horse, a lost shoe, or how to deal with a horse that's feeling silly upon going out to pasture. Soooooooooooo, I train/ teach them and some have gone on to bigger barns and making more money. This I love because I know they'll make me proud in doing a great job. Even with some, I attempt to teach about ailments, what to do in emergencies, or even to show up when expected. Many times they don't work out... Thus the 'firing'. There are some that decide that this kind of work isn't for them, and they just never return.  Eventually, it's easier to just do it myself and not have to deal with people.

I've hired folks that say they 'rode as a teenager' and I find myself thinking
 " ooooookay- that means you really haven't a clue, but know how to show that horse who's boss"  If they're interested in coming to meet me and the horses, most times, they're not really going to.  I am sure those of you who have had to hire the 30-somethings to work at a job find the same thing is true. Sure, they want to make the money but aren't going to actually work to earn it. Then the teenagers who apply for a beginner level horse oriented job- suited to their knowledge- and the first thing asked is "how much will I make?".  Ummmmmmmmmmm, it is very bad manners to even mention money until one has the job. In fact, that kind I'll leave behind.

Finding that my recent weekend helper wasn't as responsible as I thought, it was time to move on and hire another person. This little part-time job was super simple. Let 5 horses in for the evening (or turn them out for the night- depending on weather), make sure they all have their feed, proper hay, and full buckets of water for the night.  Easy, right? Apparently not. I advertised and got only a few responses with a resume`. Again- why can't people learn how to fill out one properly? Misspellings, bad language skills... sheesh.  Their ages ranged from 21 - 35 years old!  These weren't children, but adults. A couple of them asked about the money first when it was clearly posted in my ad... some had very limited horse experience, some, none what so ever. <sitting here shaking my head, all over again>

Why answer an ad, make an appointment and don't bother showing up? That I don't understand. It shows how immature, unresponsible and rude some of the 30-something crowd is once again. Hard to believe- but I see why they don't have a job!

Perhaps it is just this area. Perhaps it's how people have been raised, or have become... I don't know.

What I do know is that, once again, I'll just do those weekend evenings myself. That way I won't have to risk a horse being in trouble if I'm not there being a 'babysitter' to my "employee". Some how, paying them to be babysat by me kind of defeats the purpose...

Memories

7.30.18

Another tale is about working at a Steeplechase farm in Maryland a mighty long time ago. This farm was owned by some rather "well to do" people. It was gorgeous - designed similarly to some English yards from a good while back... The stalls were in a large square with open sides for riding out, and with a lovely courtyard in the center. The stalls were huge for huge horses needed to be able to lay down and sleep in comfort.  There was grass in the center for horses being cooled out and to graze a little. This design really helped keep the cold winter winds out and afforded the horses' fresh air all of the time. Painted in the farm's race colors, it was ultra classy and made me feel like I was working "across the pond".

There was also a smaller enclosed barn with 3 stalls in it for those horses needing peace & quiet or had been injured. '' the Layup Barn". That's where I worked. There was so much to learn and I was in heaven doing it. Hard work, EARLY hours and some horses that even though they had been injured were still racing fit and full of themselves. My day ended around noon. Long, hard hours, but anything concerning horses wasn't "hard" to me.

In this layup barn, there was an older guy named Dave. He was from England and had trained horses to run on the flat and also the "chasers" as they were called back "when he was a kid". Dave must have been over 60 years old when I met him. It was tough to tell because he never complained about aches and pains and his face showed his years. He was quite the character and I became a friend of his. At least I hoped I was. Dave would tell me stories of long ago back in England of his horse he'd entered in the Grand National Steeplechase. He'd never say exactly what year but long before I'd been born. His horse made it over Beecher's Brook only to be knocked into a rail, or was it over a jump and was hurt. Ohhhhhhhh, he was so wonderful in telling about it! He especially loved hearing that my dad had been Irish- and would add in some Irish stories too.

Dave used to play Broadway show tunes early (5 AM) in the morning. I knew if he had arrived or not, thanks to those records. Every morning it was a different Broadway play! I'd drive home whistling tunes each morning. He'd sing to the horses as he took care of them. They relaxed in listening until he sang the tune from ''Oklahoma!''   I was cracking up at the reactions from those horses.

One morning, I was wrapping one of my favorite mare's legs and heard Dave singing in a stall. All of a sudden, I heard someone whistling the same tune- but from outside the barn. Hmmmmm. I finished wrapping my horses' leg and saw it was one of the older Irish grooms from the main barn. Apparently, he knew that tune also. I don't remember what the tune was but it became a pair of guys trying to outdo each other, whistling! I loved it and in no way was even going to join in. This was around 5 in the morning. It had been a foggy night, and now slowly the sun was trying to burn that fog away. The small barn was almost magickal that morning. Finally, they'd both run out of 'whistle' and decided to teach me how to jig. I cannot remember what the Irishman's' name was but he was my teacher. Dave whistled and sang some Irish tune, while I was taught the steps. We were laughing so hard at my mistakes I could barely keep up!

So there you have it- try learning an Irish Jig at 5 in the morning. I surely don't remember much about the steps, but I do remember how that little barn glowed in love that day.



https://www.pandora.com/station/play/4028742212397618055 

One More Memory

7.30/18

I was chatting with a pal of mine and we began exchanging memories of places we had worked or people we had met throughout our lives with horses. We sat, miles apart, laughing at each other's stories, so I thought I'd share some of mine here with you.

There was a guy I had known as a horseman just about all of my life. When I was in my 20's, he wanted to send his new gelding to me to work with. Of course, I said yes. Sundance arrived at my very small horse farm within the week. (3 acres) He was a very handsome horse and apparently well trained too. I asked his owner just what he wanted me to accomplish with his horse.
 "Just win me a blue ribbon, Kris. That's All I have ever wanted- a Blue Ribbon".

All spring, Sundance and I worked together. He was so easy to teach! It wasn't long before we could all but 'dance' together under western tack. I loved that big ol' gelding. Soon, it was time for show entries to be mailed in. I entered Sundance in a few classes and my favorite Appaloosa mare in different ones.

Show day arrived and we did, too- at showgrounds. Both horses were spotless, tack well oiled and the silver sparkled in the sun. My mare was first- and she wonderfully behaved. We placed 1st and got the ever-popular blue ribbon. It wasn't long until it was Sundance's turn in the ring.

We jogged into the ring second and got a look from the judge. I usually try to enter the ring first to have the judges attention on us only. Sundance was perfect too! He remembered to drop his neck just enough and to keep all of his gaits smooth. He'd respond immediately to soft signals from me. I was in heaven one more time at this particular show. We lined up and waited for the judge to make his choices.....................  they began placing from the bottom, and working their way up to first. As the group got smaller and smaller, we were still standing there. Then it was between me and another guy who had done a Great job. We won!  I was so pleased, and let Sundance know it as we rode over to get our blue ribbon. Sundance must have understood that he'd done something splendid as he bent his neck way down, shaking his head in joy.

By the time we had gotten back to our trailer, there was Sundances' owner. Oh my gosh- he had tears streaming down his wrinkly cheeks! He grabbed Sundance and cried into his mane for pure happiness.  I got thanked over and over again, with a big hug and a kiss on the cheek. It was a grand day, and Sundance lived the rest of his life in luxury provided by his owner who finally had his Blue Ribbon.

People!

7.28.18

There've been so many times in my life that I just wanted to stop dealing with people. Due to my chosen livelihood, I have dealt with many different kinds of people who know horses, * think* they know horses, haven't a clue, and then the most dangerous kind: the people who love horses, those who know enough to get someone in bad trouble and then drop everything, running away in total fear.  Haha- I'd rather have my fingers chewed off than to deal with that type for a lifetime.

A bit of history for those who don't know me well... I started learning from the neighbors' horses. A shy little girl who wanted to ride like the wind, but wasn't brave enough to ask daily to ride one of their horses... that was me at 9. (haha-yeah- believe it or not!). I would be horse-watching any time I could... hurry thru homework to go see 'the horses'. I learned so much from those 3 backyard horses! I learned that they easily communicated via body language, sending images, or pain- either verbally or silently. They spoke to each other all the time, and as I sat watching, I learned that language too. Eventually, my parents bought me my own pony and bought exactly the wrong 'first pony' for their daughter.
Again, I learned. The signals when said pony was going to buck me off, running home, gleefully. Yep- I'd find him standing there waiting for me...and I learned.

When I got my first "real horse", he taught me so much more. Questions when he hadn't understood what the heck I was trying to get him to do. Confusion when he'd try but would fail- sure as a 14 yr old kid, there were times I'd lose my temper and think  "well that's it you dumb horse. You're being sold!"   I'd feel terrible at calling him names and kept trying to figure out how to speak "horse'' so he understood. We both hung in there, though, learning together. He, a 3 yr old part Thoroughbred and me, a kid with no experience in training. I Really began moving forward was when I was 21 and had my first Appaloosa. I'd taken some college courses concerning equine anatomy and understood the movements, muscular structure and more. That certainly helped in teaching young horses and knowing more about them. Eventually, my Appys and I began winning at smaller local shows. I soaked up everything about horses I could from anyone- gleaning and listening. Back then, there was nothing available to a poor country kid when it came to "horse schools", ( IE- colleges) let alone my being able to afford to attend. I read everything I could, learning all the while. Some folks wanted me to see if I could "fix" their horses problems and that was the beginning of big-time learning. Each troubled horse had its own set of problems and I treasured each one. Trial and error created one very wise 25-year-old woman. Every horse I taught became so much happier and worthy of my small fees. Their owners were pleased and that pleased me.  Fast forward 30 years and by now, I've taken on plenty of mentally messed up horses to the point where I can understand them before they can realize I do. Now, it's a breeze to deal with a mentally healthy horse, if not a little boring. I took my soul mate ( my Percheron mare)  to a World Championship, showed many Appaloosa horses at the National level, so whatever I am doing works!  I no longer ride, thanks to way to many times of being dumped in the dirt, hefting 50-pound hay bales, carrying two 5 gallon water buckets, being slammed to a stop on a young reining horse, and all of the hard work that comes from running barns alone.  I sure do drive though and Love It.

Ok- back to the people part.  :) For the time I have lived here in Pennsyl-tuckie, ( as a dear friend used to call it) I have taken in boarders. Quite a few of them over the years. Some were here for the long run, others just here for a few months, and some who figured they were supposed to be somewhere else at the moment in their lives. Some that were asked to leave because I wasn't going to deal with their ideas or what they did with/to their horses. Taught a few lessons, trained some driving horses and showed/competed my own personal horses. Over the years, I have found my patience level is no longer high enough for the little guys- the young folks who have no clue about horses but love them.  Haha, let the 30-somethings keep yelling " HEELS DOWN!!!" and teach those little ones. Slowly I cut back on teaching kids, stopped taking in outside horses to train to drive, and am now thoroughly enjoying my horses. Boarders come n' go- and what I have learned over the years is that they expect to be able to be around ALL of the time, or want to come n' go as they please. Or not at all... (all hours of the day or night) They want to be catered to- expecting someone to plan things for them to do. I offered mini-clinics here at my barn, and other fun things... Our farm is private- not a big 'open to the public' farm, and some of the people have created situations where I haven't liked going to the barn in the past. Don't get me wrong- I LOVE being in my barn, but when those negative vibes are around, no thanks. Then there are those who get upset if the world doesn't revolve around them... and will leave a well-run barn because one thing bothered them. Sheeesh- why not come to whoever the barn manager is at the time and ask/talk it out? I find that a severe lack of communication happens in a barn sometimes. Unless the barn manager or owner is a biotch on wheels, things will get sorted out, or not. Everyone has their own ideas on how a barn should run, but, (for those who are now boarding, or are thinking of it, OR if you are considering taking a friends' horse to care for) keep those lines of chatting open. There are many times a barn owner or manager has so much on his/her mind, they don't think to ask...Plus, that person in charge didn't just decide to get hired to care for other's animals the week before you moved in- so most likely, they can help with any problems you might be having. B e sure to communicate with those in charge and life will be great again.

So, here I am. Getting "older", ready to slow down a little more but still love horse folks who come here. Either to visit or come to help out, or to simply bounce ideas off my brain. I enjoy it a lot, even if this body has made me slow down from leaping those proverbial tall buildings on a horse.

If you are boarding here, don't be afraid to sit me down to listen to you. Problems can be sorted out in an adult manner - and hopefully remedied. For all of you out there who are boarding at a place you don't like, try talking it over with someone. Someone 'horsey' so they understand where you're coming from, but always remember to give that barn manager the benefit of your thoughts too. I know they appreciate hearing from you. I know I would.

A Farrier, a Veterinarian, and a Choke

7.24.18

Whewwww, whatta day. First, all it has done lately is rain. Sometimes heavy as can be, and sometimes a gentle drizzle. The whole farm is saturated w/ water, and the creek is flooded big time. Gosh, gods of rain- I know I said we needed some rain, but not THIS much. Of course, with rain comes humidity that is in the 90% range. It's terrible- and reminds me of when I vacationed in Bermuda. NOTHING dried, it poured every afternoon. Ugh. So, as it is now, I'm sitting in my 3rd change of clothing for the day. From what I read, it's supposed to be 'wet' till Thursday. Well, we certainly got enough rain!!

I headed to the barn to give BoJangles his lunch. He's not eating hay much at all now. Those old man teeth,yanno... the vet who floated them said they were fine, but still.

At about 2:50 or so I returned to the barn to give all the hungry faces a very early dinner (these horses are only getting a VERY small amount of feed- it is more of a token- but it makes them feel special. I thought I'd just turn them out as they were done getting their hooves trimmed. Bo wasn't interested in his feed. Hmmmmm............. I let it go but kept thinking about him. He'd stand in one corner of his double stall. Another odd thing. Took his temperature - it was normal. Hmmmmmmmm...... Very occasionally, he'd paw like he was colicky. Hmmmmmmmmmm...I got my stethoscope and listened to his middle for gut sounds, and they were normal. I watched him thru two horses being trimmed by the farrier. Walking to his stall, he turned his wonderful big Percheron face to look at me. He had liquid coming out of his nostril! Now I realized what was going on... he was choking. Got on the cell phone and called my vet who luckily was right there to answer.

So- I had a farrier trimming horses in the aisle, J. had arrived to help out or just be here... and now the vet was on her way. Sheeesh. Spending money right n' left today.

Once she arrived- she brought her husband whom I'd not had the pleasure of meeting. He's super- and a perfect guy for Becky. She tranquilized Bo after deciding that indeed he was choking. Most likely on what he'd had for lunch. Poor old' Bo... like he hasn't enough problems. She tubed him, discovered just where the blockage was and eventually she got him all cleared. Whewwwww... He's on antibiotics for a few days and has to get soup for feed for a few days, then be brought back carefully as his throat is so sore.

I could tell he felt better because immediately he started schnuffling around his mat for FOOD. Nope- no food for you for a few days, pal. Just "mush". Right now, he's come out of being tranquilized and got his meds and is happily eating grass.

Again- whewwwwwwww. I am NOT ready to lose that big putz in the least. I love them all so deeply and he's my last Heavy Horse. I get all weepy when I think of my life without a Percheron to love... 

" the times, they are a-changing".

Horse Watching

7.6.18

Has anyone just sat on the ground and watched horses?  I bet many have. I know that I sure have done many days enjoying and watching horses. It's amazing how they can communicate without a word to each other. Realize that all that time in silence there is a big conversation going on between equines. Body language, images and more.

When I was a kid, I didn't own my own horse or pony, but happily enough, my neighbors did. Horse watching ( and eventually, taking a sketch pad with me to draw them) was a great pastime for a horse crazy girl. I knew their routine on a daily basis- when it was time to stand under shady trees swishing tails and dozing. When it was time to head to the pond to get a drink, and when it was Dinner Time!

When a new horse was added to the herd, herd hierarchy became all confused. If the new horse was older, it was pushed away but not usually chased much. A younger horse who figured it was going to take over, was shown it was not going to. There was always a "boss mare", second in command, and so on. The interesting thing wasn't necessarily what size an equine was but how it saw itself. Small ponies can become bosses, giant draft horses are moved to the middle of the herd, and the more boisterous, young horses sometimes are taught a lesson in humility. I've watched brood mares discipline their foals. Sometimes seemingly a little harsh, but the foal understands quickly. A mare of mine onetime sent her colt into a far corner of their stall. Why, I don't know- but she sure let him know he was NOT to come out of it til "mama'' said it was alright. He did stay there, but not after trying to go back beside her and be a pest while she was eating. Back he was sent, with a tooth bump on his behind... This is a fake bite- usually done with a lot of theatrics. Ears flat back, neck stretched out, mouth wide open, letting the offender know he/she might just die in a moment. But- it would end up only being a good, hard bump from those front teeth as the chased horse was 'scooching' its butt out of the way.

Speaking of broodmares not all mama's are really good at mothering. Just like humans, there are the mares who simply do not want to raise a child. Some could care less and some are downright adamant about it. That's when a foal becomes an orphan and the owners start looking for a foster mare. I remember one mare who had decided she was remaining footloose & fancy-free- no way was SHE going to take care of some goofy looking thing she had just 'pooped' out. No way. After she tried to kill said foal, it was removed from her stall. Happy as can be, she went back to eating her hay.  Needless to say, she was never bred again. The baby ended up being bottle fed and grew up to be a well adjusted young horse.

There are some that I often refer to as "smother mothers''... the ones who will adopt ALL of the foals on the farm. It doesn't matter what size, color or breed- these girls aren't partial. They love foals and never can have enough. My Clydesdale mare was one of those. Oh myyyyyyyyyy- when there was a little anything born on the farm- she claimed it as hers. She became quite the Auntie to many.  One cold March morning, a lovely Percheron filly was born and Carli knew it. Because it was miserable outside, I chose to let my Clyde wander about the barn area. She kept coming back inside the barn. No matter how many times I shooed her out, she'd turn around and be coming down the aisle. She wanted to adopt the newborn filly as her own. Carli had been a mama many times over and obviously had been a great one. Finally, I closed the gate to keep her out, thinking my Percheron mare and her daughter could finally have some time together. Nope. I heard a schnuffling outside and when I checked out the stall window- there was a Clydesdale muzzle trying it's best to lift up high enough peek inside...  My Percheron mare didn't like it much, and finally, Carli gave up. I owned a Thoroughbred mare who was the same- anything small... chicks, baby turkeys, goslings, even a short pony. The pony didn't really enjoy being pushed around gently by a foster mama it seemed... It didn't matter though. They were mothers through and through!

There are horses who are great as babysitters, but not in it for the long run, too. These girls don't mind keeping an eye on other mare's foals so long as they don't have to keep them.   But that's for another post!

It's Not "All That"

6/27.2018

A few days ago, I wrote a short post on social media about owning/ running/ managing a farm. Reminded by another person who'd written of her trials and tribulations, I thought about it a little more.

It is  "romantic" to own one's own farm- especially a horse farm. That seems to be every horse person's dream... to own their own pastures and a barn to keep their horses in. A place big enough to keep one's horse in one's own backyard. Yep- it sure is great. I have been fortunate enough to do this for a lifetime.

The first little place was 5 miles or so from my hometown. It was built on my parent's land...and was maybe 2-3 acres of woods and cleared land.  My husband (now ex) and I worked like mad to build a little house for us, then a barn for my horses. A three-stall row barn for my Appaloosas, tack room and a place for hay/ bedding. A small turnout area I also used as a ring. It worked great! Up every morning at 7 or earlier in summer, trained my horses, cleaned their stalls, groomed, and towards 4 or so, taught students to ride. Eventually, it became a training barn with clients sending their worst ruined horses to be "fixed". I loved it and did pretty well. It wasn't long before I was showing at national levels w/ my personal horses, hauling trailers w/ students and horses to shows. Again, it was VERY small in land amounts, and very ummmmmm. rustic. It was Hard work too but not as hard as my future would become.

The second farm was much bigger. I covered all of the finances for this new pole barn and we worked our behinds off to get the stalls built. This one was almost 20 acres, with a 10 stall barn. Again- I loved the new farm. More hard work, and longer hours as I wanted to make it support itself. Many students now, and Percheron horses  Bigger horses meant more hay, feed, more money going out for care, etc. I kept a few riding horses for lessons also. I was showing the drafters and teaching all types of folks to become better horse people.  Again, I loved it. Many more stalls to clean, more hay to load into haylofts, more feed bags to dump into bins, up before dawn on some days and getting done by dark-thirty on some days too. Long hard, heavy hours in the intense heat and then freezing cold. Owning horses IS a  24/7  life and it was pretty much just me doing it. Occasionally there was a helper and oh boy, was it welcomed. The husband was supportive and helped when he could, but it was my choice to be living a life with horses.

During that time, I also worked and subsequently managed other barns. Some show barns, some breeding farm barns, and one or two training barns. I'd get home to my place and have to get those stalls cleaned, etc. and in time for the 4 o'clock rush of riding students arriving. During the summers, it was full-time students, driving, showing and summer pony camps. Again- up sometimes before dawn, and finishing in time to see the sunset. At shows, even longer days...  WHEW! One time someone told me that the reason I worked so much was that I liked the money. Yep- the money was great, but I also loved what I was doing! There's a big difference.

That was when my back began falling apart. It hurt all of the time, and there was one time when I simply couldn't get things done thanks to incredibly horrid spasms and pain. One keeps going though, doesn't one? I did and injured my back more and more... falls, heavy lifting of feed bags, and heavy hay bales. Heck, one expects a little pain when one has done this all of one's life, right?

Move forward to Pennsylvania and this farm. By the time I was ready to leave Maryland, I was also ready to downsize a LOT. Instead, I ended up with a much bigger barn, more stalls, and a little more acreage for pastures... Of course, any horse person knows that if you have a big barn, it simply MUST be filled with horses, right?  Hahahaaaaaaaaaaaa- so, eventually all of the stalls here were filled with happy, hungry ( and pooping- in one end, out the other ;) ) horses. Riding students, just a few driving students, a few clients sending their horses for training, and me traveling to other's small farms to train too. By this time I'm in my 50's and reaaaaally wanting to slow down. Constant back pain by now, joints that felt like they needed to be "oiled" some days, and still I had to trek to the barn to feed, do stalls daily. That's when I began having hip pain. Ugh- and it just got worse and worse... It got to the point of being unbearable over the two years I just dealt with it. I was no longer riding, thanks to a bad wreck back when I was in my mid 20's and damaged my knee. That had become arthritic and was my "weather predictor" by the time I was 35. Still, it was 24/7 work- no vacations as many folks had, and if a horse was sick, guess where I was?  Yep- at the barn.

Finally, I was forced to get a total hip replacement and realize that folks I had trusted as friends expected me to be joyous and happy all of the time... Even when dealing with hip pain to the point of my hiding in the bathroom and crying. The over the counter pain pills did nothing to help, and I knew it was time to get something done. Those "friends" didn't deal with me being grumpy before my surgery- and some left my barn when I needed them the most. Thank the gods for a few who understood and stayed to help. Of course, I was grumpy- almost crippling pain, the frustration of feeling like someone who's been handicapped physically and being forced to realize that it was now the time I HAD to stop working like a mad woman for her horses. Forced march... and I hated it.

After the hip replacement (ended up a total job because I'd quite simply worn it out! Bone on bone, arthritis all thru it and now I was faced w/ learning to walk correctly again), I had to let everything heal, and once off those wicked pain drugs, it was discouraging and frustrating to me.... Eventually, things DID heal and there's no pain ( hahaaa- because it's all steel) in my hip. My back has crunched to the point where I'm 2" shorter and it still aches so badly.  Back surgery is in my future, but not just now. There are way too many things I want to do, and having rods in my lower back doesn't come into the equation of life for me.

So all in all, if you still wistfully dream of owning your own farm for your animals, remember it is a LOT of work. Actually, I think caring for them is more work than having fun riding or whatever you do with your horse. (s)  You have to get up earlier so your animals are fed and cared for before you leave for work. You have to schedule all of the many things needed from others for horse care. Farriers, veterinarians, equine dentists and who knows when an emergency will happen. No, wait- those happen when it's a holiday weekend coming up, or a planned time away from the barn, a get together with family, a date, just about anything important to you. It never seems to fail either. There are financial items needed to be paid monthly- feed, electric, fence repair and more. This is all before having time to ride off into the sunset on your horse, or gallop gaily across a field.

The work is strenuous, haybales keep getting heavier, as do those feed bags and water buckets. Freezing cold winter weather creates all sorts of troubles one hardly thinks of when just living in a house... Frozen water buckets, frozen water lines, ice in pastures, horses that want to do "horse things" but end up getting into some sort of trouble and the list goes on.  During Summer, it's the heat and humidity (if you live in that type of climate as I do), bugs, flies, and more. I go to the barn now (and forever) knowing I am going to end up being soaked in sweat, covered in dirt of some kind or another and " stinkin' to high-heaven' !!

If you board? Oh my- when there is a blizzard in the making, I imagine it'd be nice to be able to sleep in or watching the snowfall. Knowing that those running/owning that boarding barn will care for your horse (at least I HOPE they are!!)   But!   If you have your horse in your backyard- guess where you 'll be during a blizzard?  In the barn- caring for that horse. Shoveling that snow or plowing a path to just get to the barn is a feat in its self.  Then getting your horse out to its pasture, where it will play for a few, do some poops, and then want to come in. (Some normal horses don't mind being outside in the snow, but there are those.........hehehee)

The rewards are wonderful though. Walking into my barn either seeing the summer horses out in their pastures or those in their stalls, welcoming me in the mornings or saying good night to them after evening chores are done is my life and has been since I was 12 years old. Sure it's damned hard work and it is constant but the memories I have are from a lifetime of being with horses. They have taught me so much and even though I've cried my heart out over losing each old horse, I don't think I'd change a thing. There have been times when I just wanted to be like a "city woman" for a week and enjoy life without needing to head to the barn to feed or care for a sick horse, 

but all in all, I wonder "what would I DO???"  <grins here>

'We Gots New Babies!'

For quite a few months, I debated about having more chickens here on the farm but chose not to. Why?  Because now that my soul mate is gone, that leaves me with two horses of my own. I've not been down to TWO horses for I don't know how long! When I first moved to this area, there were six. Granted, one was a pony and the other a foal, but there they were.  At one point, this barn was full, and it quickly became a LOT of work for one person ( Me & occasional helpers).  Happily, I own just the two now- and I am liking it fine. Of course, there are boarders here, but so long as I keep an eye on them ( And I DO)- and care for them, my main concerns are my two beasties. Much less feed to order, same w/ the hay for winter, and keeping track of a few horses is a breeze now.

The weather once is stopped Raininggggggg, got very pleasant, so I began letting horses spend a lot more time outdoors. Like 24/7. I had NO complaints from any of them.  Fly spray, water, breakfast n' dinner- and in between?  Grazin in the grass.  Even those who had been pampered and figured that here, life should be the same loved being out.

 But I digress. Once I am down to just one equine, this farm will be sold and we'll be downsizing. That is the main reason for not getting chickens. Well, that and the fact that they were being killed at a helluva high rate. Spring is horrid for predators stealing into chicken coops at night and having a grand time killing my girls. Each time it happens, I feel so sad for them. Not that they died so much but HOW.  What a horrid, horrid way to die.

 Thanks to my 'window shopping' on the local Craigs' List, I noticed an ad for Orpingtons. Not just the average chicken but LAVENDER Orps!!!  Those are absolutely my most favorite chicken breed. Firstly, I adore the Fat Farm Hen breeds, and Orpingtons are FFHens. They are so friendly and peaceful- even the black crosses I have are sweet and friendly. Lastly, there's a decent market for selling any I might have for sale. The breeder made me a deal I couldn't ignore and 7 "Littles" came home with me.

 First, they were spooked being in a different place with different smells and sounds, but it didn't take long for them to learn that good things came thru that stall door. Two mornings later, I had 7 little gate greeters there to meet me. I brought FOOD for them :). When I had time, I'd sit with them as they had breakfast or dinner. Soon, curiosity got the best of them, and I was surrounded by teenage chicks. There seem to be 3 cockerels ( roosters) and 4 hens- but I am never SURE till crowing begins. Stay tuned on that.

Here are some pics of them, taken yesterday I think...

                                            Apparently, they liked my shoe and snuggled up...

                                           

                                          Some have names- The one below is Princess,
                                    because she acts as though she should be treated as such.

                                           I believe the handsome guy below is a Cockerel...
                                               and his name is "Sam"

                 

                                         Below, one of the other possible roosters sparring
                                           with Sam.

                                                         
                                                              My "Gate Greeters!"

                                     
                                      Then there were four of them snuggled beside my foot...

I love chickens almost as much as my horses. They all have distinct personalitlies, are pretty smart for "eraser brains''. and they give us fresh, delicious eggs to boot. They eat bugs, and scratch the manure piles so I don't have to spread them, and they are good company when I'm at the barn all alone.

Between the new barn kitty girls, the chickens, and the horses, we all make a strange group!