Horses Coming and Going and More

Whew! I’m glad to be in my spacious, bland hotel suite and resting up for a bit, because it’s been quite a day of coming and going. It started early when I blasted through tons of errands and things on the to-do list so that I could focus on the horses for most of the day.

The horses had no idea what they were in for, though to be honest, they never do, except they know food shows up when I pen them up. I had a terrible time getting them to come in to eat. That all ended when the familiar rumble of Sara’s trailer coming up the driveway. They know that means someone is coming or going.

I ran around and arranged the gates so that the paddock with rocks in it is separate from the rest of the pasture. That way, our surprise arrival will have her own space.

Well, VERY long-time blog readers may remember this red-and-white mare. It’s Spice! Spice showed up a decade ago when Sara realized Apache had so many foot issues that she couldn’t do what she wanted to as a rider. Spice had more of a spicy red mare temperament and love of movement. So, Sara started working with Spice and I inherited Apache to groom and love on (and ride when he felt good). When Fiona showed up, we had quite the riding group.

Eventually Spice started having pain issues, which is when Aragon showed up with his fancy moves. He was quite a few levels up from Apache and Spice! Thus, Spice retired to hang out with the other horses for the past few years.

Apache has always loved Spice. He looked longingly at her sometimes after he moved to our pasture. So when Sara planned her move to Wisconsin, knowing her older and arthritic mare couldn’t come, I offered to take care of her for her remaining years. Happy to help out my old friends!

We will try to keep Spice separated for a few days so the herd can get used to her.

But wait, there’s more. While Spice was coming in, I got Drew all dressed up to go on a date. I think he knew it was important, because he was a perfect gentleman as I groomed him. I even got burs out of his perfect hooves. That cracked me up.

It was my turn to drive a horse in a trailer, as I took Drew over to Tarrin’s. He met a woman who needs a second horse without some of the issues of her other one. They got along great, too. So, there’s a chance Drew may have a more appropriate place to live with someone who can keep him working and sound. I’ve felt sad that I’m unable to do what he needs to feel good.

Anyway, Drew was on his best behavior and made a good impression. We will see if anything comes of it, but I was proud of him no matter what. The idea of rehoming him has taken a lot of thought. I wouldn’t do it with anyone Tarrin didn’t recommend. And I felt good having her share about Drew honestly.

A funny thing happened as we were talking in Tarrin’s parking area/pasture. Drew found something interesting on the ground and started sniffing it. Then he curled his lip in a spectacular Flehmen response.

He kept sniffing and curling for a long time.

He finally settled down. Tarrin thinks a wild animal must have peed on the ground, which no doubt smelled extra intriguing!

When we got home, Drew immediately checked out Spice, very politely. However, Apache was having none of that. He inserted himself between Spice and Drew. When Drew tried again, Apache was very firm. We will have to see how this additional feminine energy will affect things. Luckily, Mabel and Spice seem fine together. I hope I won’t have to separate the boys and girls!

The weird thing is I was supposed to leave for Hilton Head today. I moved it to tomorrow so the horse stuff can happen. So, as soon as I got everything settled, Lee and I took off for the Austin airport. I leave in the morning.

Yeah, we got the upgrade for no good reason. It’s pleasant, and I got to eat at the restaurant at the airport Hilton, which I always like, even though the menu was different. I had celery root/asparagus soup and zucchini noodles with rainbow broccoli and delicious mushrooms. No photo of the food, but here’s a sparrow that got into the hotel.

Sorry this was so long. It was an emotional day.