March 1st and still another snow storm is moving in to our area. I've been very impressed at how tough these mustangs are, taking the temperature swings very well whether from wind chills of almost zero to 50 degrees the other day. Of course the warmer days are just a teaser, there is still more winter to come.

Unfortunately I've had to pull Zephyr from the competition because she is still lame and will be unable to compete but we have formed such a strong bond that I have asked to adopt her and the BLM has approved my application.

Ariel is a hand full to say the least and now occupies my full time for the competition. She has a rather quirky personality and at this point I am going to be happy with just being able to lead her quietly, load her with no problems and have her stand for vet and farrier. I admit I'm jealous of those who are already riding but I understand that each of these animals is a unique individual and some are going to be easier than others. Fortunately the mules have been good teachers at helping her learn to trust me as you can see from the photo with the grooming brush. While brushing little Firefly, Ariel comes up seeking her own grooming time. I've taken it slow with the haltering because she was so flighty when she arrived. The slightest move and she would wheel around and run away. I've had to literally start dancing around the paddock lately, making weird moves just to desensitize her to human movement. Of course after the initial spook she always looks at me like "what do you think you're doing??" I've also been dealing with Ariel's separation anxiety issues which were rather severe to start but she is now learning how to be separated from Zephyr or the mules without throwing a tantrum. Ariel is a big beautiful girl, and very spirited, gaining her trust and teaching her that people can be ok has been an educational process.

I would like to thank Zoe at Nurtural Bitless Bridle who has donated a bridle for Ariel's training. The new bridle arrived a few days ago and so far Ariel is very interested in this new piece of equipment. http://www.nurturalhorse.com/