The Farm - New Foals

This time of year reminds me of "foaling time" - when spring arrived and the mares would begin to give birth. My Dad was always concerned that "his girls" might have trouble with the birth of their foals (foal is the generic term for either boys or girls). So, for some years, he would sleep out with the mares when they were close to foaling; and I would get to join him sometimes out in the barn - sleeping in the stall with the mare. It's a wonderful thing to see a newborn foal try to stand for the first time, wobbling while trying to find where to nurse. My Dad would always place his hand over the foal's muzzle as quickly as possible, so that it would relate his smell to it's mother's - and then be easier to train when older. The first awkward attempts to run and kick - while still not having full control of their long legs - was a sight to see. Spring is a time of renewal and rebirth - and our childhood memories can enhance that feeling each year. Hope you can take the time to feel some of that "renewal" soon. Wendy's husband.