Valentine Goes To School

It was an exciting day at the barn! Audrey had a chance to work with the new baby. She was teaching her how to lead with a halter. Grace took the pictures, I held the mare (mommy), and Terry (from the barn) helped Audrey learn how to work the ropes. Audrey is going to be very ready to work with our new baby.

Audrey helping Valentine get used to a halter



Audrey looks so big next to this baby!




Now what was it you wanted me to do?

All is well with Friday. She is huge but is still prancing around like she owns the place. Three weeks to go!



First Baby of the Year is Here!

This cutie was born on the 15th about 3 hours before I saw her at the barn. They are calling her Valentine. I took Audrey and Grace to see her the next day and they were thrilled. Audrey really couldn't believe how small she is. Valentine looks healthy and happy, although her mother is not real eager for her to get close to anyone. The girls are even more excited to see our baby!

Gettin Big

                                          
Friday is fit and happy, although a bit muddy. I worried about her in the cold, but she came through fine. Audrey wouldn't stand for her being moved to the barn. There has been a respiratory virus in the barn and Audrey was worried our girl would get sick. She did fine outside.

I calculated her potential birthing dates. Horses have a lot of variation in gestation. She could foal anytime between February 19th and April 16th. Usually the mare will wait longer if her foal is due early in the year. I'm thinking end of March will probably be about right (it has something to do with the longer light in spring and summer).                 

She is pretty big now and seems uncomfortable more of the time. She kind of sways back and forth when she walks.

The baby tends to sit on one side or the other most of the time, which makes her walk even seem more lopsided. She doesn't let it bother her too much. She still runs if there is food involved! She enjoys her occasional rolls in the dirt.

Taking a load off.

Aaahhh! That feels good!

 

Almost all the way over.....

 

.

Just can't quite make it!