As Spring finally approached, the horses were allowed out in the pastures for @ an hour. The farrier had just left & more rain was predicted (when isn't it lately ?) - so we decided to let the horses out in the morning.
I think Buddha could sense a taste of freedom was looming near b/c he started getting antzy in his stall. Our plan was to divide 4 equine into 2 pastures - giving them all PLENTY of running, bucking,& rearing space...after all they had been in the barn for over 6 weeks!
I'm almost as excited as Bud...just knowing he would be a beautiful site running around enjoying all the wide open space before him.......
So.....imagine my surprise when my super horse....took 3 steps...put his head down...& ate!
As did Tia.....altho she did take a few more steps :)
The most gratifying site was the 22 y/o Thoroughbred mare - Regal - she exploded immediately after setting one hoof in the pasture - galloped around the entire area with her tail & head up bucking her heart out. It was just beautiful to watch....which is what we all did......ergo no photos:)
Eventually she joined Black Jack - who had joined Bud & began her brunch of newly sprouted luscious green grass.
The 2 B's chomping away without a care in the world.
Now...it's time to bring in the wonderful sated equine back to the barn. They all had pretty much remained up front where we had left them....until...I entered w/ a lead rope. Then they ALL took off like abanchees running the entire 6 acres of land bucking & rearing like they were all 2 y/o's!!! ( Keep in mind...2 of them are over 20 & the other 2 are 16 & 11.)
I leisurely walked the entire length of the pasture only to have Bud & Tia zip rite passed me....Kayla was having no better luck on her side w/ her 2! We needed a plan...so...Melody quietly stood by the gate w/ a bag of carrots & calmly shook the bag - a sound horses soon learn is delicious - & we waited. I figured if they wanted to run, I would encourage them to run their fastest by cutting the pasture in half w/ my body ( look as big as you can & keep them moving ) & wear them out. I must say the stamina Buddha had was impressive - now he was zipping @ Melody as well & galloping back in my direction several times. Then.. I noticed the slow down...& he eventually stopped by Mel & was rewarded with carrots. Tia slowly approached them as I slowly approached her & was able to attach the lead rope. I knew if Mel had Bud by the halter he was good for the moment BUT if Tia decided to flee - Bud would be in hot pursuit of his lil herd.
Kayla also had a plan & closed off the barn leaving 2 stalls open...then opened the gate & encouraged her 2 from behind to exit the pasture. Sure enough...in trot BJ & Regal who went directly into their stalls.
I truly think they were all too pooped to care they were back inside - I know we were!!! Needless to say photos were not an option...since we were all using every limb we had to corral this naughty lil bunch!!!
