Susan and I had an 8 AM lesson today at Happenstance, from Ellen Baehr. I put the horses on the trailer at 7 AM (perhaps overly excited for this adventure). Susan rode Oisin, and I rode Stone, and we had a blast. Stone went really well, with Ellen’s reminders and advice to me. Ellen loved both of our horses, which was nice.
I was incredibly proud of Susan. She rode Oisin like she has been riding jumping horses all her life, instead of just the past couple of months. Her proficiency and cool composure are inspiring traits, and it has been enjoyable to watch her progress. We plan to return in three weeks, after the two weeks of upcoming horse shows. I did a very inept job of videoing, and here are a few stills…
I returned home, cleaned and unhitched the trailer, and just as I finished, Rebecca arrived to help with gardening chores. She slaved away, with my occasional help, and then, as we were planning next week’s schedule, I noticed there is a 50% chance of rain tomorrow. Nathaniel had already warned me that his schedule will be tight, so I decided the main mowing had to be done today, just in case. This will doubtless hold off any chance of rain, but I hopped on the big mower and Rebecca did the push mowing, and we got the place ship shape for Saturday’s visitors – well, at least the initial impression will be alright. With any luck, Nathaniel will finish the back of the property.
A cicada shell – when I see this, all I can think of is OAK MITES! 
Garden nemesis – tomato hornworm 
Rebecca, who saved the day
Harry worked in the studio, sorting out a new armature. By the end of the day, we were both exhausted, but content. Weedy was very happy to have Harry on the couch at last.
Therapy session – not sure who is getting, who is giving, the comfort 
Harry got a haircut today!
Mistletoe tells us we should spend more time resting and appreciating life, like she does. The occasional yap and a regular nap are two secrets to a good life, according to Mistletoe.
Stay safe, stay well. Peace.
“The occasional yap and a regular nap“ perfect, thanks Mistletoe!
Great hair cut, Harry! Love the photo of Harry and Weedy, what a pair. I like your hard work to the point of exhaustion myself, very rewarding! Of course, all the treats and indulgences inbetween are nice too, and necessary! I am again intrigued and impressed, Anne, with your knowledge of nature’s smallest creatures, and the photos are fabulous! Good start to my day!
Notice who does all the work and who does the napping….Well, somebody has to do it, and I am particularly good at it.