It is like spring outside! My daughter had a lovely lesson on Cody today, and he had to be sponged down afterward. Amazing.
We had about 20 deer come through the woods today, putting Rafer and Redford on High Donkey Alert. Rafer would not let me get closer to the woods than he was - each time I stepped in that direction, he walked ahead and angled his body so he was between me and the woods.
We also had guinea hens in the trees. I am hoping they stay and eat tons of ticks.
And the hay net results are in. Out of 5 stuffed hay nets placed in stalls last night (alongside the regular loose hay) the geldings cleaned theirs out. Salina and the donkey boys - not so much. Which is actually fine, because it's the geldings who truly need the slow feeding thing.
I've heard that even some of our more northern blog friends are having warmer temps today, so I hope we're all getting a much needed break from the cold winter.
billie hinton’s camera-obscura:
life and lessons on November Hill Farm
I think we've actually reached the high 30's which feels like summer after the below 0 temps. The herd is out sans blankets, there is still lots of snow on the ground though, so no running for them. They just mosey from hay pile to hay pile.
ReplyDeleteYour secret service donkey's are very cute protecting you from the life threatening deer.
Glad everyone had a nice warm day and a good ride.
Enjoy the rest of the weekend.
LOL, Arlene - that was exactly it - the Secret Service Donkey in action!
ReplyDeleteI was hoping you'd get up to the mid-forties at least!
Now, mind you, this is NOT a complaint. BUT. We had gnats today! Those things must hatch out and mature in a matter of hours!
Billie, the temps soared to 7C here today and even with the strong wind our ears stayed warm. I must admit, I don't like the sound of those gnats at your place...
ReplyDeleteI am extremely proud of my honourary nephew, Redford, for acting as your bodyguard. He's a very serious-minded, thoughtful young donkey. Puts many humans to shame. He
Sheaffer, I knew you would be proud of Rafer Johnson, who we agree is a very special young donkey.
ReplyDeleteRedford of course, is very special too. I do not know how anyone lives without donkeys in their lives.
As one of your northern blog friends, I am delighted to report that it was in the 50's today (Sunday). Horses without blankets, lots of unfrozen poop to scoop, but how much easier life is when you're working in a t-shirt! Maybe you could send those guinea hens up in our direction. The only good thing about this winter is that there are no ticks. What do you suppose Rafer thinks those deer are? My horses always look at them in fascination - "They're kind of like us, but without manes and those silly tails and they smell funnny...."
ReplyDeleteI think Redford is part deer. He has a beautiful red-brown coat, and, of course, the remarkable leaping ability of his woodland pals.
ReplyDeleteGlad you got some warm weather, Victoria!
ReplyDeleteWe had another 70+ day, including MOSQUITOES by the end of the day!
Matthew, you're right - Redford channels deer energy for sure.
ReplyDelete