Natural Hoof Care

Our farrier's name is Alida and she subscribes to the natural hoof care philosophy. After reading a book on the subject, Garron has become somewhat obsessed with learning about this and, I believe, is planning on taking a course so that he can confidently take care of our own horses' hooves in the future. This will save us a lot of money as hooves need to be trimmed at least every 6 -8 weeks.

Riding Lessons

Journey and I are in the same riding class. We go every Tuesday evening for an hour. Its neat to be back in the saddle. I am riding a mare named Pebbles and Journey is riding a gelding named Jake. She rode him last year and really enjoyed him. Pebbles pulled on the reins a LOT during our first lesson but was very relaxed and gentle during the second lesson. We rode in the outdoor arena this week. It was a lovely evening.

arena session

Well, Sopey and I had a good first riding session in the outdoor arena today. Neither of us really knows what we're doing but I can definitely see potential. I tried some of the stuff I learned in last week's riding lesson and it actually worked. So that was encouraging. I need to work on my focus. And she needs to relax a little (ok, a LOT). I am surprised at how relaxed I am when on her. That was not the case when I rode before (years ago). I'm still quite nervous around the horses when I'm trying to groom or feed or lead them ... but when I get up on Sopey I feel safer for some reason. Even when she's not listening or responding right away ... I still have a good level of confidence. Hope nothing happens to diminish that.

Picnic In the Park

This past Sunday we took the kids to Olds and ate lunch at the local playground. Good fun ... enjoyed the sun ... and eachother's company. (:

Unky Jonny

Unky Jonny has a permanent and treasured place in all our hearts. Not just cause he's related, but because he 'relates'! We love when we get to spend time with him.

Smile!

Although much more serious than Solly, Journey still finds time and reason to smile and be silly. Its wonderful for me to see her loosen up and I take it as a reminder for myself to focus on the lighter side of life.

Silly Solly

Sol continues to be a sweet and unique individual. He is fluent in affection, accepting of all personalities, fun-loving and free. His spirit is soft and his smile comes easily.

A Chip Off the Ole Block

Sol at the Playground

Journey's Favorite Recess Activities

Our Herd

Bottom: Sopraisa, a 9 year old Peruvian mare. Very shy and difficult to catch, but fun to ride when out on the trail. Amy and Sol share this horse.
Middle: Lammanyana, Sopraisa's 10 year old sister. Comes right up when you arrive at the field. Curious and quirky. She does tricks for treats and likes to have her gums massaged. Lammy belongs to Journey
Top: Oscar (the grouch) is a 19 year old Selle Francais. He used to compete in dressage and hunter/jumper. Now he and Garron are becoming buddies. He stands 17.2 hands high!!