The horses are super happy that the grass has gotten tall enough to begin grazing!
We did a soft start with only 4 hours at a time (after eating hay) for several days. Yesterday, they were able to graze all day.
Since we haven’t had Galaxy for very long, we weren’t sure how he would behave with the electric fence. Thankfully, he seems to have a high respect for it.
We also weren’t sure how much trouble he would be to get back into the barn yard…
The first day, he followed Flicka’s lead and ran around trying to avoid being returned to the barnyard. However, he was the one who went in first.
The second day, Galaxy saw me coming and started heading for the barnyard, but Flicka was still giving trouble. So, he tried returning to the grass and had to be cut off. Yet, he didn’t question it. I told Bob that Galaxy is super smart. I mean, this is the first real interaction we’ve had, it’s at liberty and he already understands what is expected and not questioning it.
The third day, Galaxy saw me coming, went to the barnyard and Flicka followed.
The fourth day, I opened up another section of yard and coaxed them in with grain. Neither had hesitation. lol
Yesterday, I was on the phone and saw the horses headed to the barn yard, so asked Bob if he’d go shut the gate behind them for me. He said that they weren’t in the barn yard yet, but all he had to do was point in the direction and Galaxy went right in. Flicka had to be called a couple of times, but also was simply pointed in the right direction. Bob said it was the easiest putting horses away he’s ever done (even with using grain)!
I told Bob, “Yep. Galaxy is super smart. I can hardly wait to do more with him!”
May 5
The horses aren’t the only ones who have to ease into pasture time…
It’s not even 70 degrees (though the real feel is 77), I was only outside for an hour, and I’m already very close to having a sunburn – before 11am! I hope my body adjusts quickly to the warming temperatures. In the mean time, it looks like I’m going to be starting “summer hours” early and be outside before 8am if I plan on getting any thing done. .. and pay closer attention to my hydration!
May 6
3 Years Ago, we became home owners!
It sure has been an eventful few years! I told Bob that despite how stressful this year has already been, I am doing far better emotionally and physically than 5 years ago. I believe that having our own place, having the horses right here, and being out of town… all have attributed to this vast improvement.
I mean, I was growing and improving while living in town, but my anxiety always seemed to be holding me back. While the anxiety seems to be ready to reappear at any given moment, it is not a daily problem like it had been and my growth has accelerated and my confidence has been reblooming. We are ever grateful!
May 10
Last year, Ben went to visit his Dad in Oregon, who helped cut custom pieces to replace the rusted out tongue and back ledges of this horse trailer. Ben brought the pieces home, along with new fenders, and had them welded on by K and K Welding. Ben also drilled new (and additional) holes for the lights. Then, the weather turned cold and the project had to be placed on hold.
A few days ago, Ben pulled this project out of “storage”. The long, tedious job of sanding and painting has begun!
May 11
One of my oldest’s stories, White Lies, was listed as a “Top Story” on Vocal! (It’s like being an Editor’s Pick)
May 20
What started as what I thought would be a simple Policies and Procedures Handbook turned into a 134 page book! I am so thankful to be done with this project!
It contains the Organizational Policies, Safety Handbook, Emergency Preparedness Handbook and our Equine Welfare Practices.
Some special features that I am particularly fond of include an Emotional Connection Wheel and a Pain Scale. (pgs 62 and 63)
Next, I need to update our Client Welcome Packet and get these files uploaded to our website.
May 21