The sun is finally shining and I know that summer is here because Rolo is eating the trees. To watch him rearing up on his hind legs to tackle the lower branches is amusing to see. He will not. However eat anything more then a few days old. The bluebells have come through now and, thankfully, he does not eat them.

More good news, Charlie has been fitted with a leather harness and he has worn it for the first time. No problems at all, he tasted the bit for a few minutes but did not try to spit it out. He accepted the collar and bridle very well and will be taught how to push, yes push, into the collar so that we can do light work with him. George will also have a set and then the hard work starts when we teach them both a new set of rules. Slowly, slowly and always at their pace, this is really exciting for us. We have had them both since they were weaned and now all the trust and attention will be tested.

Smartie, is looking super in her summer coat, as do they all. She has developed a strong bond with Rolo and the two are usually near to one another. All that kerfuffle in the beginning seems such a long time ago now. Standing in the sun they all have a lovely sheen on their coats.

Golden Flame always loves to be groomed and will stand untied for this pleasure. She will, however, reciprocate the brushing and the backs of my legs are not as tough as one of her equine pals and her teeth can be quite sharp. She is enjoying the better weather and loves to be in the sun.

Boss and George are quite content to stand around the feeder in the hope that we will fill it up. We do give them a little hay when they are in for any length of time but we are very aware that the grass is beginning to show and they will pile on the weight if we are not careful. The balance between enough and too much is a skill we have had to develop.

They have all had their hooves trimmed by Ian this month and all are in good shape.

Please remember we now have five ponies in the Adoption Scheme, Golden Flame, George, Charlie, Rolo and Smartie. Please come and see them at Brimpts any Sunday afternoon between 2pm and 4pm, ish.