We had an influx of people, horses and dogs today.  It was wonderful.

Jo brought Hetja (my soon-to-be brood mare) and Essja (my yearling filly) to do their feet and some work.

Beeble and Snati also came along.

Fiona brought her two daughters, Arwen and Amber and they were quickly put to work brushing Haakon and Iacs.

I had the sudden urge for a bonfire (there is something very therapeutic about a good bonnie!)

Haakon fell in love with Hetja.

We tried the new saddles on Hetja and, after Jo had shod her fronts, she lunged and rode her.

Darling Hetja was just the same as ever, listening, relaxed and willing. She hasn’t been touched for 4 months.

 

Meanwhile, not-so-darling Essja was a spoiled little madam who didn’t want to be tied up (ok, it was her first time ever) and had a tantrum.

We decided on diversionary tactics for this behaviour so Fiona let Esja follow Hetja in the school and learn how to lead nicely.

This method did work well for a while, although there were some brattage moments which were ignored while the good behaviour was suitably rewarded.

It was so lovely to see everyone today.  The girls loaded like professionals to go home ….

 

….while Snati (oh, the shame) had to be carried to the car as he suddenly lost the use of all his legs and, possibly, brain!