Highland Hooves

2012-01-29T12:42:00.000-08:00

Here, my owner's daughter is riding me. She's away at university much of the time but very occasionally she climbs aboard.

My owner had been walking along taking photos but decided to give up at this point as it was getting steeper. Yet I am expected to carry on with a weight on my back!

In the field beside the stable yard, there has been a group of tups for a couple of weeks. However, the farmer has now moved them all somewhere else but has forgotten this one and left him behind. My owner took a photo of him on her way back. He is quite friendly and comes close, baaaaing. I wonder if he thinks I'm his dad (or mum!).

2012-01-16T13:38:00.000-08:00

Today started off as a good one. My owner's friend brought her son to ride me. I had been warned to be very gentle as he was sitting on me without a saddle and I can be very slippy. I was on my best behaviour until we got into the big field, then I could not resist the temptation to snatch a few blades of grass. I blame my owner for my meagre diet during these winter months. Anyway, as a result, Jillian held on to me quite tightly.

Then, after lunch, my owner brought me into the yard and announced that it was time to get my teeth checked. I hate this - well, would you like this huge contraption forced into your mouth to keep it open?

Luckily, my teeth were okay and the rasping didn't take too long. I'm glad when it was all over though.

2012-01-11T14:01:00.000-08:00

My owner was quite pleased when she saw me today.

I was looking fairly clean and dry considering all the rain we've had since Christmas.

But then she saw my legs!

Well, nobody's perfect, are they?

2011-12-31T09:06:00.001-08:00

Wishing all bloggers and equines a very HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-12-17T13:23:00.000-08:00

Last week's snow finally disappeared yesterday but it came back overnight, meaning I have to search even harder for something to eat to keep me alive.

Wait, is that a blade of grass over there. Must go to investigate.

Here are two of my friends working equally as hard. Life is tough in December!

2011-12-14T08:52:00.000-08:00

Can anyone explain to me the logic of a human? At this time of the year when it's all wet and muddy, my owner puts me out early. Yet in the summer when there's lots of grass, she keeps me in for much of the day. Today I put on another of my 'hard stares' in the hope that she would feel guilty and bring me back in. But it didn't work.

2011-12-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

Yes, we've had our first snow of the winter, although this picture was taken a couple of years ago. She is Blossom, a big mare who used to live at the yard but who now has a home with a loving owner and is living in luxury!

2011-11-24T13:17:00.000-08:00

No, this is not a beauty spot! Apparently, I seem to have acquired something called ringworm. My owner isn't surprised because, to date, 19 other horses have it too. It was brought in by a new horse on the yard a couple of months ago and seems to be making its way round all of us. My owner has something to help get rid of it and I am being subjected to lots of face wiping with the stuff. Seems like only a few months ago I was being washed constantly at my other end for the pinworm! I hope this won't take as long to disappear.

2011-11-17T12:56:00.000-08:00

Well, one of the advantages of this time of year is that my owner tends to stay off the hills and moors because they are wet and muddy. Instead, we tend to ride around the village which is flat and less strenuous for a hairy pony. Here we are today half way round the one and a half hour route she likes to take.

The only drawback is there are lots of long stretches where I have to trot. I would much prefer to amble along looking at the views.

Now, are we going right or left today?

Off the tracks and back into the village.

My owner always cracks the same old joke about wishing I would get my speed up to twenty. I've heard it so often it's wearing a bit thin now. I wasn't sure about that sign beneath it that had appeared since last time we were along this way - but my owner told me not to be silly and I had to walk past.

We crossed over the main road at the junction and rode along past the old school. It's now been turned into flats.

This is where my owner lives, on the turning on the left. One day I'm hoping to be invited in to eat the grass in her back garden but she says she she doesn't trust me to stick to the grass - I may be tempted to eat her plants as well. Now, would I do such a thing. . . .

Getting near the field where Glyn and Pharoah live. They always start showing off when I pass, galloping along the edge of the field beside me. They do it on purpose because they know I am not alllowed to gallop on the road.

Thought I would stop and give him a hard stare just for good measure. He thinks he's so handsome but I think he's a bit soft having to have a rug that comes right up to his neck. Anyway, only about twenty minutes away from home and lunch will be waiting. . . . .

2011-11-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

My owner took me into the school this morning. We'd only been in a few minutes when a friend of hers came in and they started chatting. . . .and chatting. . . .so I decided to make the most of the autumn sun and catch 40 winks

I must have nodded off very fast because here I am having a lovely dream. However, I won't disclose the contents - for horses ears only.

As you can see, my owner continued to film me, which I think is very undignified.

Eventually my owner gave up and sat down beside me. Apparently I was in the land of nod for a full 35 minutes and in that time, I had caused quite a stir because some people thought I had died and came to ask my owner if there was anything they could do to help.

Finally my owner had to wake me because two of her friends were about to set off for a hack but could not get their horses to walk past the place where I was lying (don't you think that is just typical of mares - they see me asleep in the field every day, so what difference does it make if I'm resting my hooves in the school?). I was a bit disgruntled at first but then I realised I didn't have to do any schooling after all as my owner had to be home for lunch and had run out of time. Oh what a shame. . . . I may have to try it again another time!

2011-10-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

Just saying goodbye to the last days of autumn before winter sets in

The clocks are put back tonight which means I might get an extra lie in tomorrow before my owner arrives

At least I'm carrying a few extra kilos to see me through the winter

Halloween on Monday. Perhaps I'll be a wooly mammoth and go guising. May get some more treats!

2011-10-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

There is a new, young horse a few stalls along from me who has just been bought for the riding school. He seems a nice enough person, although still a bit anxious and wary of the goings on in a very busy yard. Today, one of the staff came in and went to brush him. I don't think he saw her as he was eating his haylage so he jumped a little. She wasn't cross with him but she said, 'Look, you're a riding school horse now. Just get used to it.' I was getting my daily groom from my owner at the time and it made me realise just what a lucky pony I am to have someone special to love me. There are lots of horses that belong to the riding school and although they are well looked after, many of them will never know what it is to have a special person.

Here are some photos of riding school ponies, past and present. Special thoughts to them and to other working horses all over the world. . . . .

2011-10-08T07:01:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, I took part in the World's Biggest Riding Lesson. It was organised by the Riding for the Disabled association to raise money and horses from many different countries were riding the exact same movements at the same time. My owner rode me for one session, then I was borrowed by two other people, one of whom was the husband of a disabled rider who comes to the yard. Here we are taking part. I was very good and looked after my riders well.

2011-10-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, my friend Ginger went to stay with a nice lady who was interested in becoming his new owner. She has now decided, after four weeks, that she likes him and would like him to stay with her and her other ponies. Today my owner and her friend (Ginger's owner) went to visit him in his new home. He seemed very happy with his new buddies and he will have a very happy life. I will miss him though.

Here are some photos of our past rides together.

Bye, bye Ginger. I hope you have a long and happy life.

2011-09-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

My owner has just put me out in the field, having kept me in for 8 hours to stop eating the grass. I was feeling a bit grumpy so didn't bother stopping to say goodbye to her.

Then I realised she was still behind me, taking photos of me making up for lost time.

She didn't go away, so I stopped and stared at her for a bit. She didn't take the hint because

she was still following me when I walked past my friend, Mungo. I didn't take up his offer of a groom because there was too much munching to be done.

So, I got to work in earnest - but she was still there. Apparently, she wanted to get an 'artistic' shot with me holding my head high and gazing into the distance. Uh, no chance, so she waited

and waited

and waited, but I didn't oblige, even though she had jumped up and down, made screeching noises, screamed loudly, rustled tissues - but I know all those old tricks.

So she gave up and walked away. Pity she didn't turn around at that moment - it might have been a perfect picture (tee hee).

2011-09-15T08:39:00.000-07:00

This photo of me was taken by my owner's friend, Kirsten. I am rather pleased with it!

2011-09-07T13:35:00.000-07:00

My friend Tansy will be 18 on Friday ( I use the term 'friend' quite loosely as she has been known to show me her heels if I get too close to her rear end). Here is her birthday present all wrapped up, waiting.

I'm not sure that Tansy can read so this notice may be wasted on her.

Nothing wrong with her sense of smell though. She looks as if she knows what might be inside.

She's wasted no time tucking in. Don't suppose she'll share any with me though.

Munch, munch, munch - she's obviously enjoying herself

She's a bit of a pig. Hasn't come up for air yet. . . .

Still going strong. . . . .

. . . . and ready for the next bale!

Happy Birthday Tansy!

2011-08-28T14:24:00.000-07:00

My owner and her youngest daughter paid a surprise visit to my field after work this week.

I wonder where I can buy a jumper with little humans all over it!

2011-08-20T10:11:00.000-07:00

The yard where I live is also a large riding school. Last week, my owner was asked if I could be used for the Annual Show. This is a competition for all the children who ride there each week. This year there are too many children wanting to enter so there was a shortage of horses. At first my owner wasn't sure incase I didn't behave myself with a youngster on board but she agreed in the end.

Here I am before the children arrived. I am being briefed by one of the instructors that I must be on my best behaviour and not get too excited. My owner had spent a couple of hours on my mane and tail so I was feeling pretty chilled.

That is, until I saw the costume I had to wear. I had to be the Loch Ness Monster. Once my owner had assured me it wasn't real, I didn't mind it sitting on my back.

Wish I could have worn a hat like my friend, Morton. Not sure I'd want a pink one though.

This is me with my little rider, waiting to go into the Handy Pony event. I wasn't too bad, except I did try and eat the grass a few times as I was going round.

Here I am after the show. Everyone agreed I had been a very good boy and my owner could breath a sigh of relief!

2011-08-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

Apparently, that black shape is me!

2011-08-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

As some of you already know my owner has not been able to ride me for the past four weeks. When I first heard this, I assumed I would be allowed to have the time off too, but she had other plans for me. I have been a 'trek' leader, taking out the tourists on the many rides around the area. Here I am today, just about to embark on an 'experienced' ride. That's always bad news - it means I have to cover more ground much faster in the same amount of time as a 'beginner' ride where I am allowed to plod around and look at the scenery (or grass!).

2011-07-27T09:26:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make. I was a very bad boy a couple of weeks ago. I was out with my owner and her friends and mine enjoying a leisurely hack up past the castle and as usual, Ginger's owner stopped to take photos of us all. Well, I haven't a clue what happened, but suddenly Ginger must have heard something that scared him because he spun round, causing his owner to fall off straight away. That wouldn't have been too bad but we all panicked because Ginger rushed through the middle of us all and galloped off down the hill. Now, that can only mean one thing: TIGERS IN THE BUSHES, so we didn't hang around either and we all turned and galloped after him.

My owner managed to stay on longer than she expected (she doesn't even trot downhill usually) but I felt her coming over to one side as I was hot-hoofing it down the hill, then I was aware she wasn't there any more (oh dear). I have learned since that she has injured her Rotator Cuff in her shoulder (the bit that the body protector doesn't cover!) and cannot ride for the next few weeks at least (perhaps I should do it more often).

Anyway, we were all a bit shamefaced when our owners eventually got us at the bottom of the hill. By then, we knew there were no tigers so we took the chance of eating the lovely grass that is meant for the sheep.

Here are a few pictures from the day - but none of the 'incident'. At least everyone lived to tell the tale.

Here we are setting off. I'm at the far left of the photo eating grass while Hal closes the gate. That's my friend, Bilbo, eating grass too. Of course, he's another Highland Pony - it's what we do best!

That's where we all disappeared.

Here is my owner. She had walked all the way back up the hill to make sure Ginger's owner was okay. All the other owners came to find us at the bottom.

Finally, we are all together again. The owners walked home, apart from Ginger's because, for some reason, he was still quite hyper. My owner wasn't cross with me. She said it was the first time I have ever done anything like this before but I do feel guilty for hurting her.

2011-07-23T11:09:00.000-07:00

Out for a very brief ride today (my owner was walking beside me because of her 'unofficial dismount' last weekend!) when we spotted something ahead in the field.

It didn't seem bothered by us but I'm glad I wasn't too close to those antlers.

He must have decided we were scarey because he started to trot off in the other direction. However, when we came back that way, he was back again eating grass. He's lucky. He gets to eat as much grass as he likes whenever he wants!

2011-07-13T14:17:00.000-07:00

You can tell my owner is on holiday because, as well as riding, she thinks up all these silly things for me to do. Still, it's not hard work at all. In fact, it's quite boring. Here I am having 40 winks.

Better show a bit of interest, I suppose.

But then I was joined by clever clogs, Harry. He likes to do his party pieces with umbrellas.

He's a bit of a show off, in my opinion. Thinks he's so cool just because he doesn't mind umbrellas twirling round his head. I suppose that will be the next thing on my agenda. Watch this space - there's another four weeks till my owner goes back to work. . . . . . .

2011-07-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we had our annual Misummer Ride. This is when all the livery owners and staff ride out together in the evening to celebrate summer. There are usually about 15 horses taking part, including me! However, my owner has not ridden on this for the past two years. She is getting old and wimpy. So, younger friend, Jillian takes me instead. Here she is just about to get on!

My owner is in charge of taking all the photos. She couldn't get everyone in the same shot together so it had to be done in two halves.

I'm in this one, third from the right - looking quite small and cute!

Here I am striding out through the bottom flats.

Surprise! My owner was at the side of the road waiting with a carrot - yum - she can be very thoughtful sometimes!

My owner followed us in her car for a while till we got off the main road.

She was waiting again on another corner. It was becoming a bit of a pain having to be asked to smile. I was trying to concentrate on my job.

Through the forest. Jillian is giving me a nice long stretch.

Into the first canter field. Here I am getting ready. . . .

and off we went.

This is where my owner had to give up. We left her far behind. . . . . . . . . .

2011-06-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

It was a mixed weekend - sometimes I was out. . . .

while other times I was in!

Hope your weekend was good.

2011-05-27T07:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had my annual EMRT session which I love. The therapist advised my owner that I shouldn't be ridden for 7 day (Yay!). So today my owner took me into the outdoor school where she said I could choose to do as I liked.

No need to ask twice! This is what I like doing best (along with eating, of course).

2011-05-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

I have just heard that my old pal, Dylan, has left his present home to live about an hour's drive away. Although he still belongs to my owner's daughter, she has moved him to be closer to where she lives so that she can see him everyday.

I feel very sad about this. Even though he wasn't very nice to me when I rode over to see him a few weeks ago, he was still my best pal and I knew he was within riding distance. Now, I don't think I'll ever see him again as it is much too far to ride and we don't have any transport.

Here is the last photo of Dylan that my owner took of him when she went over to say goodbye. For the first time ever, he followed her car down to the gate and waited while she drove away. I think he was saying goodbye too.

2011-05-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

Think this one needs a caption! Any offers?

2011-05-01T10:22:00.000-07:00

My owner has been going on all week about the wonderful weather. All I know is that 'wonderful weather' means I have to work harder. Here are a few photos of the rides I have had to endure in the past few days. One of them lasted over three hours!!! Such a waste of time when I could be in the field eating all the new grass that is appearing!

2011-04-22T15:03:00.001-07:00

Today was humilating! You'll find out why in a moment. Here is Harry's owner coming to play with that dreaded ball.

Harry's not bothered about it. He's a bit of a quiet show-off!

Here I am minding my own business. . . . . . . .

When the bl**** ball comes and hits me up the backside

I legged it as fast as I could - while Harry stood as still as a statue

I managed to find a far away corner and hoped that no one had been watching

But no doubt Harry will spread it round the herd this evening - and it's my 12th birthday today too.

2011-04-15T10:08:00.001-07:00

My owner's friend has just launched a CD of Scottish music! No doubt I'll be trotting round in time to the beat - oh joy!

http://www.marwickandmackintosh.com/

click the link for a listen!

2011-04-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

It was arranged that we would ride over to the place where my best pal, Dylan now lives. He was to meet us half way and escort us back to his home. I heard him coming before I saw him and I shouted the loudest greeting I could and he called back. It was SO good to see him again.

However, when we got to his home, he didn't want anything to do with me and instead he rushed back to his new horse pals that he has made there. They had been shut into a paddock in case they didn't like me. He didn't even want me to get near them and warned me off with threatening faces. I can't believe he would treat me like this. We used to be best pals - now he seems to have found others he prefers. . . . . . . Felt a little sad when I got home this evening. It had been a long ride, there and back too :(

2011-03-31T09:12:00.000-07:00

Had a nice surprise this afternoon. My owner came to see me, even though it is one of her 'work' days. Nice big juicy carrot, but as usual, the camera wasn't far away.

She goofed in the first shot though.

That's better!

2011-03-18T15:36:00.000-07:00

Well, it is official. Life is not fair. Why is little Geronimo allowed to be in the paddock that has some grass when I have to put up with a mud-caked field?

It will be at least another couple of months before my half changes colour. By then I shall be wasting away!

I am perfecting my 'what a cruel owner I have' face, in the hope that she feels very guilty. Somehow I don't think it will work.

2011-03-06T14:34:00.000-08:00

Just wondering if women still like beards

and hairy chests?

2011-02-27T14:19:00.000-08:00

A sunshine and showers day. This is me looking down over Clunebeg Estate on the ride today. Photo taken by my owner's friend, Jillian - who thinks I am a very special pony!

2011-02-17T05:57:00.000-08:00

This video is of a little riding school pony called Lottie, who was put to sleep on Tuesday. She was a favourite of my daughter many years ago, long before we ever had ponies of our own. She also was a companion to my Highland, Jock, when I used to bring him home during the winter - Lottie became an honorary member of our family and we loved her. Ironically, it was my daughter, now a vet, who put her to sleep and it was one of the hardest things she has had to do. The two of us led her to a quiet field by ourselves. I wish I could say it was a quick, easy death, but the brave little soul determined to cling to life.

This little poem is dedicated to Lottie and to the thousands of other hard-working riding school ponies, who will never know what it is to feel the love of being owned by a special person.

We might have known you would not go easy,
small ginger pony, stubborn to the end
we watched the feisty breakdance as you lay
twitching and writhing to some inaudible rhythm
only you could hear. You made it clear
you did not choose to leave.
Then, even when quiet
your heart still kept the beat while bravely
you clung to life as we looked on
like part of some macabre peep show
we had not paid to see.
Dear Lottie -
forgive us what we did
we did it for the best
sometimes playing God sucks.

2011-02-10T08:16:00.000-08:00

This is Lil the Lurcher and she belongs to the yard owner. She is very old and recovered from a stroke a few months ago. My owner makes a big fuss of her when she appears in the yard. I don't mind her - she's better than the other little yappy dogs who are always running around barking at me and my pals.

2011-02-04T11:57:00.001-08:00

My owner has put these plastic tablecloths over my stalls so I don't get splinters in my backside when I rub!

There were a few sniggers from my pals, especially when they saw this flowery one.

But I'm hoping they won't be there for much longer because (hooves crossed) I haven't been itchy this week.

YAY!

2011-02-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

My owner was very pleased that despite all the rain we have had making lots of mud in the fields, I had managed to keep myself clean for a change. . . . . . . . . .

But then saw the other side!

2011-01-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

Just changing the subject of pinworms for a while to mention a blog I follow regularly yet it doesn't seem to be read by many others. I'm sure you will love it - especially if you like reading about animal rescue

http://www.vodkadonkey.blogspot.com/
Have a quick look!

2011-01-22T08:23:00.000-08:00

Here I am on my sunless hillside. You can see where I keep rubbing quite clearly from the dark areas round my tail. My owner gets annoyed with me when she sees me trying to have a good scratch - but I just can't help it! My owner is now going to take homeopathic advice about these pinworms as nothing conventional seems to be shifting them.

2011-01-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

At this time of the year it's not much fun when

a horse lives on the north side

and spends his days gazing across at the south side! Roll on Spring!

2011-01-15T09:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, you've guessed . . . . .still rubbing. A double dose of Equest today and whole cloves of garlic now added to meals.
Can I make a plea to all of you who read this blog to ask around your horsey friends to see if anyone has any further knowledge of pinworm. I must have looked on every site on Google! I'd really like to know of any one whose horse has had it and has taken this long to get rid of it - and HOW WAS IT DONE!!!!!!

2011-01-09T12:13:00.001-08:00

Still rubbing. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2011-01-04T03:09:00.001-08:00

2nd day of the 5 day Panacur worming programme. Big worm in droppings this morning! Hooves crossed that this is shifting them. . . . .

2011-01-01T05:11:00.000-08:00

Today is New Year's Day. A day of rest - or so I thought. The stable is closed and not an owner in sight - except mine! I must be the only pony unlucky enough to be owned by someone who gets up early after New Year and decides to start a fitness regime.

I wouldn't mind if it was HER fitness regime but apparently it was MINE!

She even threw in some poles for good measure. . . . .

As you can see, I'm carrying a few extra pounds and this is the reason I am in the Fat Boot Camp. You would think with all the worms, I would look a little less rotund by now.

Oh, I hate the left rein!

Well thank goodness for that. Oh, and I see there is a carrot waiting. . . . . . .
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!!

2010-12-31T05:37:00.000-08:00

Another vet visit this morning - this time to give a Dectomax injection. She also suggested I try Pysillium Husk to bulk out his droppings as a purge - then follow this with the 5 day Panacur worming treatment. I am the sort of person who dislikes even taking a tablet for a headache so the thought of drenching Major in all these chemicals is sending me crazy but I feel I have no option but to follow professional advice.

2010-12-30T09:05:00.000-08:00

My owner seems to be spending much more time at my back end nowadays and I know she has been discussing my personal problems openly to the whole world. Honestly, a horse just wants some dignity!

2010-12-28T07:20:00.000-08:00

I had such faith in the enema but today, I lifted up Major's tail to do his morning wash and was confronted with a worm that had just wriggled out! I am now at my wits' end in trying to find ways of getting rid of these seemingly indestructible critters!

2010-12-24T09:52:00.000-08:00

Poor Major has had his Christmas present today - the enema with wormer to try and shift these pinworms! He was very good, only had a very light sedation and was back up in the field within half an hour. I gave him two huge haynets while he was waiting so this should keep him feeling cosy and full tonight. It really is a bleak mid-winter with all the frozen snow and temperatures around -8c for the last 10 days.

Happy Christmas to all equines and their owners everywhere!

2010-12-17T09:15:00.000-08:00

Still no improvement so he's back on another stronger course of steroid pills. If that doesn't work, the next thing will be an enema with wormer so it targets the area more specifically. He's not that impressed about being put out 23 hours in all this snow that has arrived back yet again.

2010-12-12T15:33:00.000-08:00

Hope no one is offended by these photos but this is the latest state of play with poor Major, still scratching even after double dose of Equest wormer. I'm going to try a different tact this week. After his feed in the morning, he is going straight back out into the field, no creams, hopefully nothing too convenient to rub on - in the hope that it might start to improve by itself.

2010-12-07T10:40:00.000-08:00

I'm afraid that the report of Major's improvement on the itchy front was short lived - for the past week, it's been back with a vengeance. I'm now about to double dose him with another wormer in the hope it shifts these little blighters. If he goes on at this rate, he will look like a Highland Pony with a Thoroughbred's tail!
Hopefully, the next post will have better news but I won't know till at least the weekend - so much snow so early this year is causing problems. . . . . . grrrrr

2010-11-27T15:07:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling a lot better today. The itching has calmed down and I haven't rubbed underneath my tail at all today. However, the snow is back which means it's going to be hard work trying to find some grass in the fields. I suppose it does have its plus side - I don't do as much work as in the summer!

2010-11-25T08:19:00.000-08:00

Poor Major is a bit out of sorts. Having wormed him a few weeks ago, I've just given him another dose because I think he may have Pinworm. Poor boy has been rubbing his bum since the weekend till underneath his tail resembled a raw steak. The vet has given him a steroid injection and he is on a course of pills. He also has to suffer the indignity of having his bum thoroughly washed every day. I am just about to have a mammoth washing session of rugs and grooming kit. Vet is back tomorrow to take some scrapings to try and identify the cause. His lovely tail now looks like a bird's nest. If he's not too embarrassed, I'll try and get some photos tomorrow.

2010-11-18T06:13:00.000-08:00

Walk in the Woods

This day has been looming for some while,

it was her failing legs and glassy stare that clinched it.

So, with first light and rook reveille

we walked together gently to the woods

where the ground was hard and frosty underfoot

after days of endless rain.

Stopping at familiar points, we watched the frantic river

racing and skidding round widening bends.

We didn’t see our heron, nor hear him call,

perhaps he chose to hide, knowing what lay ahead,

unlike the Fieldfares, whose chit chat could be heard

in distant trees across the bay.

An hour ‘s amble was enough for tired paws.

Wandering slowly home, we saw the sun appear

and put back the colour to this monochrome morning.

By the time we reached our door

we were both part of the glorious watercolour

of autumn’s final day.

Janis Clark

Bye bye Nellie - run free with no pain.

Winter's arrived. . . .

2010-11-13T06:08:00.000-08:00

Don't you just love it!

Don't know why my owner is moaning. I kept my face clean!

2010-11-07T10:37:00.000-08:00

This cockeral arrived in the yard yesterday and by the looks of things he's wasted no time in making himself at home. Here he is sitting on my friend Jack, who looks as if he's pretending that he hasn't noticed. Luckily Jack has a hogged mane so no chance of getting chicken feet tangled up but this new guy better not try this on me or he could be somewhile trying to get free!

2010-10-29T10:45:00.000-07:00

My owner was very concerned when she received the results from my latest worm count. Not only was it higher than it has ever been but it also contained eggs from tapeworm. So, today I had to endure the paste in the syringe routine. Now she knows why I've been so eating so much lately - well, that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it.

2010-10-25T14:43:00.000-07:00

I blinked and missed the summer! Almost through Autumn too. As you can see, I've stored up a few kilos to see me through the winter - just in case it lasts as long as the last one.

Back at last!

2010-10-21T02:44:00.000-07:00

My owner has had computer problems there has been no Major news in a while. Back on line today so watch this space. I bet she comes armed with camera today!

2010-09-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

Well the party's over! I couldn't keep up my pristine show persona of a few weeks ago, so here I am back to my normal grubby, rugged self - I think I look more manly this way.

2010-09-05T13:33:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm home again, tired and weary after the Highland Pony Show. Only managed to get Reserve Champion this year so my owner couldn't bring back the cup to sit on the bookshelf. Here are a few photos from the day:

2010-09-04T11:53:00.000-07:00

Following that embarrassing photograph in the post below, I have persuaded my owner to put up two more of me after all the hours spent washing. Here I am with my friend Ginger. Holding us is Kirsten who will be riding me at the show tomorrow,

2010-09-04T09:59:00.000-07:00

No, I haven't go a headache but I might have one very soon if my owner doesn't stop shampooing and scrubbing me. I am going to the North of Scotland Highland Pony Show tomorrow where I will try to retain my championship title from last year. If anyone can get there (Black Isle Showground) please come and say hi!

2010-08-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a simple game of 'Hide and Seek' just doesn't work!

2010-08-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

Here I am entertaining a friend's children. Might sign up for a stint in the circus!

2010-07-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

My owner took me down to the school today to wait for her daughter to arrive. She was very late getting there so I thought I would snatch 40 winks at the far end.

Let sleeping horses lie is my motto, but no, she had to come over and start fussing my hair

I'd not long had a good roll so all the bits of rubber were sticking to it. Might start a trend, eh?

2010-07-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

Today was hot and sunny so Dylan and I wasted no time and went for a swim in Loch Ness. He told me he's so pleased to be back again because he's doing more things here. We're making the most of enjoying time together while we can as he will have to leave again in a couple of weeks.

Reunited

2010-07-19T01:37:00.000-07:00

Today was one THE best day of the year. My owner brought me out into the yard where the biggest surprise was waiting for me. . . . . . . .

I couldn't believe it - my bestest buddy had come back for a few weeks after nine months of being away.

No time to waste - start the grooming straight away.

Change sides!

It's so good to have him back again.

2010-07-12T14:03:00.000-07:00

Normally my owner takes me out riding round the countryside but today she decided to 'school' me. I don't mind doing this once in a while but I wouldn't want it to become a regular slot in my routine. Without wanting to be rude, my owner seems to have conformation faults. For some reason, she cannot keep her right leg to stay on my girth when she sits at the trot, instead it bends right back at the knee. I don't think she'd fetch much money in the sales!

2010-07-05T01:41:00.000-07:00

Take you partners - here we go!
Roll to the left. . . . . .

Roll to the right. . . . . . . .

Kick those legs. . . . .

And take a bow!

2010-06-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

Any guesses for what I am doing here? If you read this blog regularly you'll know it's my favourite pastime!

2010-06-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

My owner is determined to capture every single moment of my day on film! Here I am having a quiet snooze before breakfast. I looked across and there she was pointing that camera at me again. Even though she stood and called me, I thought I'd just stay put. I bet she wouldn't like someone coming into her bedroom with a camera first thing in the morning!

2010-06-11T11:53:00.000-07:00

My owner has been very busy at work recently so she hasn't been able to see me very much. However, her friend, Gemma, has been looking after me and making sure I am getting out and about.

2010-06-04T02:34:00.000-07:00

Before you make a comment, yes, I know I look particularly stupid but it was one of those occasions when my owner lost her senses completely and decided I would look rather fetching in a fake tiara. Rather than object, I decided the best course of action was to pretend nothing was happening in the hope that the novelty would quickly wear off and I could regain my dignity.

2010-05-31T12:54:00.001-07:00

Today was hot (at last, considering it's June 1st tomorrow) so my owner tied me in a nice cool shady spot and gave me a lovely massage before she went off to work. I like it when she goes to work because it means that I don't have to!

2010-05-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

Eight of us on a warm day last weekend. Stopped for the photo to be taken and of course I took advantage of the free snack while my owner was busy reading a text on her phone!

2010-05-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

Thank you Washashe Mare for giving me this Beautiful Blogger award!

Please have a look at Wah Mare's blog too - http://trailbosshoss.blogspot.com/
The Beautiful Blogger award Rules are:

1. Link back to the Horse/person who gave you the award
2. Share 7 things about yourself
3. Pass the award to other HORSES (bloggers)

Now then, here are 7 things about ME!

* The part of me that I like best is my stomach
* I love snorkelling in the river
* My favourite song begins: 'On white horses let me ride away'
* I do not like hens because my owner is always feeding them MY carrots
* I hate Scottish midges
* I love it when my owner scratches hard under my mane.
* I have had 2 owners before but I hope this owner will keep me forever.

I now pass this award to:
http://moonysmum-theoakridgeponies.blogspot.com/
http://diaryofaplanter.blogspot.com/

2010-05-24T11:30:00.000-07:00

Some of my horse pals are not talking to me today and it's just because of my colour! They are angry because some of us decided not to come in with the herd this morning and instead we stayed at the very top of the hill among the trees in order to gain more time to eat grass. However, apparently we were spotted quite easily from the stables below because I stood out among all the brown horses so someone came up on the quad bike and herded us up very briskly!

I've now been warned that if there is to be another 'party' I have to roll in lots of mud first to get camouflaged otherwise I won't be invited (sigh).

Join me for lunch!

2010-05-16T07:46:00.000-07:00

It's lunch time. Join the queue!

All my pals are waiting too - Sophie, Sorrel, Morton and Florry.

Best part of the day! Just wish there was a little more of it. Sorry, can't speak anymore as it's bad manners to talk with my mouth full.

2010-05-10T07:56:00.000-07:00

Why is it that when you want to catch your pony, it can be guaranteed than he will be uphill in the furthest part of the field?

2010-05-07T14:50:00.000-07:00

One week of May over and still no sign of summer. I've lost most of my coat now and it can get chilly when some nights still have frost. My owner is getting fed up with the lingering winter weather but at least she can take her coat on and off when she pleases!

2010-04-30T10:26:00.000-07:00

A new horse has arrived in the yard. His name is Prince Caspian. What sort of a name is that? He must have a very high opinion of himself. I think I'll go over and have a word before he starts throwing his weight about. I won't be bowing down before him anyway.

Well, he seems okay. Wasn't at all stuck up. In fact we had quite a chat over the fence.

I told him that the Queen's favourite pony is a Highland!

2010-04-27T05:58:00.000-07:00

Felt much better today so I decided to go and see Major for a little while.

However, there was just an empty space where he would normally be!

There was plenty of evidence that he had been there before me!

Thought I'd hang around for a while till he came back from his ride so I spent time brushing Lottie,a little pony I used to borrow from the riding school so that Jock would have company when I used to take him home for the winter. She's now beginning to look so old. I always give her a carrot when I go to the yard (Major doesn't know!). I think she enjoyed the 15 mins quality time.

Felt my energy beginning to wilt again so I thought I'd better head for home. Enjoyed all the late daffodils along the way. I'll see him tomorrow!

2010-04-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

My owner has been to her 'vet' and has been told she is slowly recovering from the Norovirus and she still has to rest for a few days. Looks as if the carrot rationing may continue for a while yet. I am beginning to miss her (not just because of the carrots. . . . really)

2010-04-24T07:22:00.000-07:00

My owner hasn't been up to see me for the past few days and I was beginning to feel a bit neglected. However, she appeared today to give me some carrots for my 11th birthday. She only stayed 10 minutes though and I heard her saying to someone that I look as bad as she feels. I hope she gets better soon - carrot rationing is not much fun.

2010-04-14T11:39:00.000-07:00

As my followers know, my owner is obsessed with my weight. Here I am having to endure the indignity of the weekly weigh-in. It's not even done under cover of the stable. Oh no, I have to be measured out in the yard in full view of all the mares. At last, today my owner seemed to be satisfied that my 464kgs was a respectable weight for a chunky Highland pony. Of course, the grass hasn't really taken a hold yet so things could change pretty quickly. . . . . . . . sigh.

2010-04-12T09:37:00.000-07:00

These two have been following us about all day!

2010-04-06T10:42:00.000-07:00

I got my 'surprise' visit from Jim, the welfare officer from 'World Horse Welfare' charity this afternoon. Of course, my owner had to go on about the difficulties of trying to keep weight off me, blah blah blah but Jim was telling my owner that I was looking very good and not overly fat. I LOVE this man!!!

Boot Camp!

2010-04-03T02:43:00.000-07:00

I suspected something was up when my owner introduced me to a person I had not met before. We went into the indoor school where I tried to listen to what they were saying about me. Considering she had only just met me, I wasn't too pleased to hear her referring to me as Left Brain Introvert and very dominant in a subtle way! How rude. She told my owner that I have been quietly dominating her without her realising. I have been sussed!!

Here is my owner doing her best to make me move over from my head. Now she knows I don't like this but she persisted even though I tried to stand my ground. I could see we were in for a long session!

What a cheek! The new person then took over and was much more bossy than my owner. She got me to do things that I really didn't want to do but I sensed she was not going to give up.

After two hours it finally ended.

I have to admit there was an awful lot of me standing round not doing much. The new person says it allows me to assimilate what I have just been shown and that if I stand quietly blinking with the occasional lick and chew, I am taking in all the new ideas. I can see I must learn to perfect the art of blinking in future. Blinking = rest!! and I can live in hope that this is just another phase my owner is going through. . . . . . .

2010-04-01T15:24:00.000-07:00

With all this wind I should have remembered the hair lacquer.

Gulliver Travels

2010-03-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

This is Gulliver, Major's stall buddy, waiting to begin his new life this morning. We will all miss him but, once he has settled, I'm sure he will have a wonderful new life.

Bye, bye Gully!

Today, Gulliver, the final RDA (Riding for the Disabled) pony left the yard where he was born 17 years ago t0 travel to the Isle of Mull where he will begin his retirement. He has been a trekking/RDA pony all his life, giving so much to others, so he now deserves to have some individual tlc from a loving owner.

2010-02-20T02:00:00.000-08:00

Does she think I'm a giraffe or something?

2010-02-06T06:22:00.000-08:00

Apparently, I am a very very bad boy. My owner took me out for a ride with some friends this morning because it is one of the first days since before Christmas that there is no ice or snow. We rode through the sheep fields and all I could see around me was the colour green so I couldn't resist putting my head down to grab mouthfuls of the stuff - I can't see any problem with that, especially now I don't wear a bit it makes life so much easier.

However, my owner was making a big fuss and trying to pull my head up and digging her legs into my sides but I'm afraid the temptation was too great and I ignored her completely. When we got back to the yard, I heard her talking about carrying a stick in future and perhaps putting the bit back in for a while, so I guess she was quite annoyed with me. I'd better be on my best behaviour for the next while!

2010-01-24T06:24:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been a very lazy month for me. The long bout of snow followed by weeks of ice have meant no riding out. Instead I got lots of extra rations of haylage! However, today my owner led me out in hand with her friend Jill (who was riding Ginger) and Mary, also on foot. We had planned to walk to the field where Teasle and Jock are buried to scatter some rose petals in remembrance, as we do every year.

However, something started me in the bushes and I gave a little jump. This must have scared Ginger into thinking it was a tiger attack because he spun round, dumping Jill and headed for home. Luckily my owner managed to ward him off before the road but before doing so she handed my rope to Jill in case I followed. No chance of that with all that grass around. I wasn't going anywhere!

2009-12-28T01:47:00.000-08:00

Here are two of my Highland friends, Shane and Gulliver, waiting to come in for lunch. Luckily, I was already inside munching mounds of haylage.

2009-12-24T11:33:00.001-08:00

Major wishes all his friends a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!