Leona woke up this morning in anticipation of her new adventures on the farm. She marveled at the beauty of the scenic Blue Ridge mountains and became excited about what she would see and do here. Virginia was having a cold spell, so she was glad that she brought her cowgirl hat and jacket with her. She was also happy to be in the wide open fields and rolling green hills. She felt right at home.
After breakfast, she was introduced to everyone. She immediately established a rapport with the animals – Cow 36, White Horse and Farm Cat. Then there were the carpenters, the farrier, the equestrian rider, and machine operators. This was a busy place!
She loved riding “Orange 36″ cow! A most exhilarating experience, Leona knew that this cow was very special and exceptionally friendly to allow her to ride on her back. The horses enjoyed meeting Leona, too. They smelled, touched and studied her. They asked her about her Italian heritage and she was quite responsive. They enjoyed giving her a ride. Leona was very impressed – so high up! “I feel as though I am flying!”, she squealed. Then, the horses invited her to meet their buddies on the farm across the road. What she saw there amazed her.
There was a horse wearing a mask and a coat, and a man wearing a leather skirt who was bending over the horse’s foot. This was quite a sight for Leona and she asked for an explanation. We told her that it was a show horse and the coat prevents growth of a heavy fur coat in the winter. Such a coat would detract from its beauty during shows. Leona said she wondered how horses keep warm without feathers.
The man in the leather skirt, trained as a farrier, was adjusting the horse’s hooves and applying new shoes to them. Leona didn’t understand why horses would want their feet trimmed; she wouldn’t think of trimming hers!
She wanted to ask a little girl to let her ride on her horse, but she was too bashful. The girl eventually invited Leona to get on with her, but she couldn’t quite decide if she wanted to ride on the front or the back!
When we returned to the house, she ran into Farm Cat. She told her all the adventures she had during the day. She learned about show horses, rode a cow, two horses, tractors and even learned how to survey land! She had enough excitement for one day and was ready for dinner and a soft bed. She really likes Virginians and the farm, and didn’t want to leave in the morning. But she must fly home, repack and prepare for her next adventure – three weeks journey in Antarctica!
From our farm to your home, thanks for the experience~
Joyce and Ken
Tags: Blue Ridge Mountains, Leona
+00002008-01-12T18:08:56+00:00312008bUTCSat, 12 Jan 2008 18:08:56 +0000 24, 2007 at 10:35 pm01 |
brigitte nielsen
I Googled for something completely different, but found your page…and have to say thanks. nice read.