Wintery Days

The Simmons' aren't people that like to stay home and off of the horses, but when winter weather doesn't cooperate we find other avenues to suffice our range roaming hearts. Often times we will take off on a road trip to parks and places of nature to at least capture in our hearts a little bit of the outdoors and talk and dream of greener pastures and times of hitting the trails again. Other times we will load up and hit the antique malls searching for old relics that remind us of our favorite past time and cowboy times of old. On one of our recent jaunts I came across this really neat old game board. It looks to be from maybe the 40's to 60's according to the pictures and colors that were used. At any rate I thought it was a great find for our collection. Hopefully one day we can finish our dream of having a "pool room" above the garage where we can spend some of these snowy days! Meanwhile.....we along with an old friend are already planning a summer of "Back in the Saddle Again"....Virginia is looking pretty good....or maybe even one of my favorite places....Big South Fork, TN..........Rollin, Rollin, Rollin, Keep those doggies Rollin........Happy Trails!

Our Newest Addition!

After countless days, hours, and months and knowing that "Taz" could never be replaced, I finally decided that the only medicine to heal my heart was to actually fill the void. Keith located this cute little mongrel in the clippet and suggested we go take a look. But he also mentioned that I should take along the cash as well because he knowing the animal lover I am knew without doubt that I would want to bring this cutie home....and of course he was right. I think this is the only time he has been right, but hey what can I say! We found out once we arrived at "Harley's" home that they were childhood friends of Kieth's that he used to spend time with. They had a great time catching up and I had a new puppy! He keeps me company and really busy around the house! Just like a kid, I have to pick up his toys and his messes. I didn't think he would ever learn where his bathroom was, but once he figured it out he hasn't forgotten. I have even convinced him that when he needs to go outdoors he rings a bell at the door! But this is not the only trick he has been smart enough to catch onto! He knows how to speak, fetch, beg, dance, shake hands, and even jump into my arms on command. We are working on laying down, but he just really doesn't like that trick too much. We go on hikes and car rides and even camping! He loves people and gets very excited to see one of the store owners in Russelville when we go to town. Think it is the dog treat that he gets there. Our other dog Bandit loves him and they play and have a great time together. Yet another change in the Barn!

Life in the Barn, with a Barn!

Yes, we finally got to our most needed project and built a barn this fall. This is what it looked like the first day the amish started on it after I arrived home. The second day it was done! It is a beautiful red barn and I am now anxiously waiting for the finishing of the inside, so that we can enjoy it to its fullest potiential. Having horses, but no barn is certainly one of the most inconvient things for an equine owner. We have a mule colt coming this spring, so we really need to get a jump on the finishing of this feat. I am also looking forward to our first neighborhood barn dance and cookout this summer! Come join the fun won't you??

Healing.......

I can't even remember the last time I blogged, but I do know that it was during a time of loss and time seemed to just stand still. Life in the ole barn just isn't what it used to be. I lost my dear friend and camping buddy "Taz" this past July and it has been one of the hardest things I have had to deal with this last year. But, we had many good times together and I have many fond memories of my loyal friend of 10 years. He stayed by my side clear to the end and the day I decided that he needed to suffer no more, I too was there for him, not leaving his side as his eyes closed and he met his canine buddies...we know all dogs go to heaven, right? Good-bye old freind you will truely be missed!