December started with almost record warm temperatures.
Rachael had been working hard for her room and board, and it was time to go for a trail ride. Harry magnanimously offered Stone as a mount, since the Pearl Brothers can be a bit exciting on the trails. Jane elected to sit this one out, so I rode Bart, and we tacked up and set off. Marianne was here doing both barn work and her new career as photographer, still smiling even with the extra duties. Harry headed off to run errands.
Marianne 
Rachael on Stone, who has NOT had a bath, alas 
Almost ready to go 
One rein in each hand! Like this… 
On our way
Rachael was a quick study, and soon she relaxed and enjoyed viewing the world “between the ears”, despite my constant reminders that catastrophe could strike at any moment. We saw a magnificent buck that had escaped deer hunters, but the horses were very well behaved, and it was a fun trail ride.
Rachael was very attached to Roscoe, and she wanted to catnap him, but we would not allow it. Roscoe was pretty fond of Rachael, too, and he misses her.
After lunch, Rachael went to work in the studio while I rode with Jane. Oisin was a blast and very fresh. I had expected him to be worn out from running the fence and screaming for Stone while we were out on the trails, but he was full of fun. Rachael scraped clay off the studio floor, the WORST job in the studio, which she tackled cheerfully.
At work on hands and knees 
Two artists 
Rachael, ready to head west again
I took Rachael to the airport, and we were sorry to see her go, but look forward to tales of her adventurous life.
This morning, Mistletoe went to the beauty parlor. We left early, fearing morning traffic, of which there was plenty, but it was moving traffic, so we got to the groomer on time. We waited for her, and a darling creature was returned to us in place of our little ragamuffin. She still adores Harry, they didn’t clip that away.
Before 
After 
“Who is that ?” 
Kisses for Harry 
Harry and Mistletoe
I went out to run errands and visit the horse show, taking up much of this beautiful day. When I returned, Harry and Nettle welcomed me home. Cedar and Weedy were behind the fence.
Harry 
Nettie 
Weedy barks and flaps his ears 
Guard dogs
Back in the house, Weedy found the last of the sun, and Cedar fell fast asleep on the couch.
Later, the moon was barely there and beautiful.
Stay safe, stay well. Peace.
Happiest doggie ever in the photo with Harry. Happy to be home, and happy, happy to see Harry. Adorable!! I love “happy!” All the photos are wonderful, today, especially the moon showing off her sliver within the dimmed yet perfect circle.
So many great photos in today’s episode, especially cool how you were able to capture the dark side of the crescent moon. Funny how the two Rach(a)el have been your most frequent visitors (I think) of all our cousins, nieces & nephews. Cynthia and I will try to track you down soon after Xmas to toast the holidays, if you’re around. Love to Harry & all the other beautiful animals of Bronze Fox Farm!
THANKS ANNE……..