Has it really been nine years? - and trying to stay upbeat

 While I'm not a devoted fan of FB, I do like the reminders that come up. Case in point: Today is the ninth anniversary of Remy's arrival in Michigan. He sure was a cute kid, then a difficult teenager, and luckily he is now at 12 becoming a responsible adult. Still cute, though. His latest trick is that he walks out of his stall during night check (while we pick the stall and put hay bags in for the night). Remy meanders around, and when I tell him "go to your room" he marches right back into his stall. It's become our nightly game. 

Remy fresh off the trailer from Montana 

We sure enjoy the glorious fall colors. Kensington Park is stunning and lots of people are posting awesome photos, not just of the colors, but also of the wild life, like eagles, minks, and -everyone's favorite- the white doe. 

We cast our absentee ballots today, the drop box is right next to our police station, so I guess it's safe. When I talked with Mutti today she reminded me several times "waehlt ja richtig" (vote for the right person). Europeans are watching the upcoming election closely. Stephanie offered not only her open arms, plus Schnucki-Apartment, but also the garage for the horses as well - in case we decide to get on the (yet to be build) ark and sail towards Europe. It's good to have a "Plan B" :-)!

Michael's contribution to the topic 'Arc' :-)

The weather forecast calls for an unusual cold and snowy winter in Michigan. No Plan A or B yet on how to go about Remy's training through the winter months (boarding? home?). He's been working so well lately, it would be a shame to let him 'sit' in the snow for four or five months. "As long as there's enough hay and good company, I don't mind at all", Remy says. I've been checking into hoof boots with grip/spikes, for rides in the snow. The boys are barefoot in the winter, so those boots would give them more traction on the trails. But to be honest - I'm not hardy enough for rides in ice and snow. Oh, Florida, how I'll miss ya!

At least the 'last hurrah' of fall is beautiful! 

A colorful entrance to our property