The horses had a day off today. Fred, the horseshoer, was scheduled to be here in six days (next Wednesday) and the shoes are very ready for resets. To our dismay, Fred texted this evening that he is sick and will not be able to make it. I am concerned that he might have Covid. Missouri is leading the nation in cases, due to the state’s politics and failures to vaccinate. Fred is one of the unvaccinated. This is a worrisome development.
“Oh, joy, no work!“ 
“I needed a rest!“ 
Susan on Oisin yesterday 
“Where is the hay? I’m hungry!“
It was a fairly unremarkable day here. The truck went to the dealer for an oil change and A/C service. The news was not good. It will be there until at least Wednesday, and will cost a lot. But not as much as a new truck!
The hay was baled on the back field. I saw a young buck investigating the mown ground. I expect the horses will be taken aback when they see the big round bales tomorrow.
A handsome guy
Harry worked in the studio and I did miscellaneous chores, avoiding housework, of course.
Harry’s Number 1 Fan, Mistletoe on her bed in the studio
We went over to Jane’s house to see her dying Purple Robe Locust tree. It is very sad to lose such a glorious flowering tree, but there’s no hope.
Gus at the door 
The locust in better days 
The locust today
Nancy sent some lovely pictures from Montana.
Nancy’s canoeing cat, Jaspurr (aka Skysail Jack) – and a mule 
Montana mule in cool water 
We went to dinner with good friends this evening, celebrating a milestone birthday.
The birthday girl
The gardens are still beautiful, but already too dry. Never more than two weeks from a drought!
Harry with the mail 
Roscoe rests 
Echinacea loves drought 
Phlox and swallowtail
Stay safe, stay well, get vaccinated! Peace.