What is this strange phenomenon ? something we have not seen since our first snowfall~ grass !! Although it has been cold, the wind and strength of the sun is steadily melting the snow... and we are seeing- in addition to lots of manure piles-- spots of grass here and there. The snow melts from beneath and now the fence, which I raised several weeks ago, is too high. An encouraging sight. However, this was on Thursday. Friday we woke up to this- A heavy wet snowfall covering all the evidence of spring. The robins are back in full force though and this kind of wet snow will not last long--- wishfully thinking.....

We managed to get out on the roads for a few meandering rides during the week riding horses that are already under saddle increasing their saddle hours. Oyy Ivan is being worked in the indoor and he is now under saddle, loving every minute of it. He is still young so he is being worked slowly and lightly. He is so willing and I am incredibly impressed with his attitude and intelligence. He is out of Ptesan-Wi, who has given us some super foals over the years, and Homefire Curlies' WCC Benjamin. I have mentioned before how pleased I am with the offspring of Ben and this spring, 3 of the 6 foals he sired are under saddle (2 of them have been sold already).. all exhibiting the same intelligence, trainability, willingness and great movement. Ivan is so cute when he is being tacked up-- as you hold the bit in your hand to warm it up, he reaches for it, anxious to suck it into his mouth as if it was a kind of treat! Ivan has a nice forward big walk and a smooth fluid trot. Can't wait till he's older and ready to do more!

OYY Elektra is also being worked these past weeks in long lines. She is coming along excellently. She is being worked in the indoor as well as ground driven down the driveway and road. Her sire - OYY The Mighty Quinn - is an very athletic fun mount and I am sure Elektra is going to be too. She's a tall girl, at almost 3 years old she is 15.2 hands and lots of growing left to do.

This past Sunday, my daughter and I went for a shorter ride than usual. We had visitors coming to the farm in the afternoon, so we changed the itinerary. The sun was out again and the scenery inspiring.. a super ride out.

Due to the sun shining, on this ride-- our shadows accompanied us the entire way :)

One of my favorite routes to trot down. This road used to be a dirt road with almost no houses and no electricity. Lots of trails off to the right and left. I love the way the trees cast their images across the road.

Here is the opening of one trail we love -

If you look closely, you might be able to see the blue saplines criss-crossing which adds an interesting obstacle for our horses and us... ducking under each one as we go along. Today-- too much snow still so we stick to the roads.

And--- if the need arises -- how handy to find this along the ride !!

Enjoy your day ~