Looking Good!

Polo Time

Polo season has arrived. I always know the first outside game is soon, because Mark brings out the electric clippers. As with every other year I express my concerns about the upcoming black fly season. I can't stand that the horses have no mane to shake off the bugs. Fortunately for me(and the horses), and unfortunately for Mark, the clippers broke, or at least need to be sharpened. Only Tequila and Alcott have had their manes roached, and I must admit they look very snazzy! The calender is filling-up with games and practices. Mark is setting up teams, and being asked to play on teams for different tournaments this summer. Tack has been cleaned (thanks to Jenn). The trailer has been organized, and the water tank brought out of storage. The trailer's brakes, tires and lights have been checked. We always do a tack inventory early in the Spring to see what we need. This year we lucked out and found a yard sale that had horse equipment, which really helped the checkbook. What are some of the things that you do at the beginning of your riding season, or do you live somewhere where you can ride year round? It certainly is a busy time, but worth every minute of work!

Honda vs. John Deere

Mark dragging our riding arena. Who needs fancy equipment when you have a Honda Civic and a roll of chain link fence!

Hiring the Polo Groom

A few postings ago, I talked about hiring a groom. I posted an ad at a local college equestrian center and almost immediately got 3 responses. We had each person lunge, ride and handle the horses. I wasn't thrilled with any of the applicants, so posted another ad at Crop and Carrot Tack Shop . Just as I was about to call one of the original applicants, I got a response from the tack store posting. This young woman was a student in theJohnson and Wales Equine Business Management Program , participated in Eventing, owned 2 horses that she kept at home, and lived 2 miles from our farm. This all seemed too good to be true. The interview was arranged, Jenn was here a few minutes early, and I hoped all would go well. I tried to stay in the background, as it would be Mark that would be working with Jenn. He liked her, and was especially pleased that she knew equine massage. We discussed all the applicants, and decided to offer Jenn the job. Fortunately for us, she accepted the position. The horses have never looked better. I am less stressed knowing they are getting worked regularly, and have time freed-up to take care of other farm projects. She is wonderful with the horses, a lovely rider, dependable, knowledgeable, and a very nice/sweet person. Jenn is a dream come true!

Cutest Ass