A Walmart Experience Not To Miss !

So Joey, my pet name for Jolene, searched through my fridge to see what she could rustle up for lunch.
 "You'll have to do a serious shop Kyle," sighed Jolene, giving me an annoyed look and throwing her hands up in the air she continued, "there's virtually nothing in this fridge." 

I printed a few of my emails off

 "Yeah, yeah" I placated "see what you can do while I just go and check my emails and I'll let you run me out to Walmarts for a big shop."
Jolene set to work making spaghetti and meat balls, humming a country and western tune as she set about the meal.
I printed some of the emails off, just a few sheets and carefully read over them. I was just about to switch the printer off when....
 "Come and get it Kyle ! Before it gets cold."
Walking up to the table, I looked at what Jolene had cooked for me. Mmm, a little different though not much different to my spaghetti bolognese. Nevertheless I smiled, pulled the chair out and sat down, putting my email print-outs on the table. 
"Mmmm this is good," I half lied. Well there was nothing much in the fridge but I would of done with a jelly sandwich. A large mug of Kenco complemented the...meal.
 "Can I get you more coffee Kyle ?" She smiled...such a nice smile.
 "Um, yup." As Jolene refilled my mug, I picked up the emails and had another look at them.
Jolene tilted her head to look over what I was reading. "What you planning Kyle ?"
 "I thought I'd look over some American Quarter Horses for sale or loan, I'm thinking about doing some trail rides about 5 days long at least. Trouble is, I would have to employ someone to take the rides out or to look after this place while I'm gone. What you think ?"
 "Well I do know some places where that's done...it could work if you get a reliable person."reassured Jolene who was now leaning on my shoulder, and nibbling and breathing into my ear.
 "Cut it out Joey, I need to concentrate !" I got up and put the emails into a folder for future reference,  "You got time to take me to Walmart or what ?"
 "Yeah, I can always tell my boss I had a blow out and couldn't get it fixed if he calls in with another job for me." said Jolene, laughingly.

Hope Jolene don't want to look at the fashion section

Walmart was situated just a little way east of Twinbrook, at a place known as Sweet Water. Let's see, it's 30 minutes drive to Twinbrook and then 5 minutes more and we would hit the outskirts of Sweet Water. On the journey we discussed the possibilities of trail rides going out onto the prairies, through forests and such then all too soon, we swung into the parking lot.
 Inside Walmart, the shoppers were all sizes some with a weird and wonderful sense of dress. The aisles were filled to bursting with everything you could possible need as we scooted round filling the shopping cart almost to overload. Where was I gona stash all this ?
Jolene motioned to me saying, "Just got to get me some more smokes. Won't be long." 

Such a lot of cookies to choose from

Just lookin' at the shelves cram packed with cookies, when...
"Ouch ! Watch out where you're pushing that...c-a-r-t." I hissed...slowly like...as I caught sight of the gorgeous female, not looking where she was going.
 "Oh!, I'm terrible sorry..."
 "Um, not to worry, my fault entirely Miss, I wasn't looking where I was going." A broad smile came across my face as she...smiled too...I think she liked me!
 "Please, let me make it up to you ?"
 "No need to, as I said it was my fault. My names Kyle, pleased to um,..."
 " I'm Dixie...and this...." She got a card out of her purse and handed it to me, "This is my number if I've done any damage to your pants, let me know...I mean it."

We lined up at the checkout

Wow ! I watched her walk, no, I watched her butt wriggle her way to the checkout. She raised her hand to her ear while walking backwards, mimicking a phone call. That's one I surely won't pass up. Dixie...she said her name was Dixie.

I wonder where Dixie is going ?

 I met Jolene and we waited our turn to pass through the checkout, paying by credit card. Taking all the groceries to Jolene's horse box, I saw Dixie. She had already loaded her shopping up, and was walking back across the green. Wonder where she was off too ?
On the journey home, I fantasized about the next meeting with Dixie, cause there would be one !

Kyle's Monday

The heat, the heat, it wakes me up. Life is sleeping on my socks which are on my feet. One thing I need to keep warm are my feet. For some reason they are always cold even when I am hot. I lean to one side to take a look at the bedside clock...5am...might as well get up and have a cool shower. Life stirs as I rise and prise my feet away from her. Out of the

Flicking their tails

window, the horses are resting, flicking their tails every once in a while. I smile to myself and run my fingers through my dishevelled hair, this is much better than I thought it would be. My Benefactor who left me this place in his will, an uncle of a cousin twice removed, for some reason left it to me and I for one will not...how does it go, um, yes, I will not look a gift horse in the mouth!
"No Life, you can't come in the shower with me. Go!" 
Feeling refreshed from the shower, next stop, the kitchen for coffee and scrambled eggs on toast. 
I filled Life's water bowl up and put some dog biscuits in the other one for her.

Monday 7am onwards...the place is in the barn...and later the field behind the Holiday Let...
I sat down at the 'work zone', wrote out a list of Johnny's jobs for the day and pinned it to the board above as agreed. Next I made sure that we hadn't run out of stationery and nails and stuff. Johnny was supposed to look after that side but he kept forgetting...which is now why I find myself adding it separately onto a card in bold print. Should catch his eye! I glance down at my wrist watch, Johnny will be here soon in his old battered truck, 8am on the dot and here he comes, we acknowledge each other as I watch the horses mutual grooming each other. This is

A little more to the right please

done to show affection and builds a stronger bond between them. Horses live by the philosophy 'you scratch my back and I'll scratch yours.' As I was about to go and check on Storm and her foal I heard the engine of a horse box grinding it's way up my drive. 

Jolene jumps down from the horse box smiling and waves to me.
"Hey there, hows that new foal of yours ?"
"Fine. I was just going over to check on him." We walked the short distance to the field where he was shooting backwards and forwards around Storm, his mom.

Bolt, playing around his mom, Storm

"Have you got a name for him yet ?" enquired Jolene.
"One of the kids wrote the name 'Bolt' down as his suggestion. Thought I'd call him Bolt." It did seem to fit him well, "What do you think ?"
"Mmm, good choice. Anyone staying in the holiday let Kyle?" She smirked and  gave me a suggestive smile. Wow! that was a quick change of thought.
"Not till tomorrow," now it was my turn to smirk," you want to come and give me your opinion on the bed springs ?" I teased, holding my hand out pulling Jolene towards me and planting a hungry kiss on her lips. My other hand gripped her buttocks as I pulled her towards me. I felt a familiar excitement grow.
"Love to" she whispered returning my affection...or need. We both knew what we wanted.

Monday 11.50am...the place Is the Holiday Let bedroom...
Our clothes lay littered on the floor as we slid out of them in haste. "Hey Joey, (my pet name for Jolene) what you doing  down there ?" I gave a loud belly sort of laugh.
Jolene snorted and giggled,"Good huh!".

No-don't do that,leave my socks on Joey!

My cellphone began to ring. I hung outta the bed, retrieving my pants with my cellphone in and quickly turned it off. "We don't wont be disturbed now. Should of done it before. Wriggling my eyebrows I continued "Now where we ?" Jolene shrieked with delight, well I was good in bed! You can guess the rest what happened.
Finally we came together... a familiar feeling, like one big explosion. Like a shattering of our bodies into a million pieces that made us cry out together in pleasure.
"Oh Kyle!".
"Oh Joey." 

Still Monday...1pm...the place, walking back to Kyle's farmhouse...
I switched my cellphone back on and read the displayed text message I had missed shortly after switching off my cell. It announced that Dionne my sister was calling round to change for a lunch date.  With Brad I presumed. 
"Better get back fast, Jolene, my sister Dionne is on her way over."

Coffee will do fine

"Okay, can I come and check my notes and maybe taste a little more of your hospitality ?" she chortled.
"Sure thing if you can find anything in the fridge. I haven't had time for grocery shopping."
Then I pressed a button to receive a voice mail sent at 12.50pm. Again it was Dionne saying she wouldn't be over after all.

Dionne's Day Out

Monday 7am...the place Is at Dionne's hotel...
Lots to do today after breakfast. First I'll take a look at the County Historical Museum in Pleasantville. I wonder if there will be any interesting clothing items ? There usual is and what goes around...inevitably comes around. Think I'll have to take a change of clothes with me for that lunch date with Brad, the buyer I'm dealing with. Boy, is he cute or is he cute! Musn't forget my Jimmy Choo's beautiful yellow wedge heel shoes. They cost me only $395. Oh shucks, there's not much room in this case, still I can always pop over to Kyle's place and change there if I must. He won't mind.....there all packed for the day. 
I'll just pick up my car rental keys at the desk and then it's off to the museum.

Monday 10am...the place Is Pleasantville's County Historical Museum...

Whoops! Did I stand on your toes ?

Such an interesting museum. Ahh, to get the full effect I think you have to stand away like so from this and..."Whoops! My apologies hope I didn't tread on your toes too hard." Better try and smooth things over. Here goes, "My names Dionne, Dionne McCormack."
Inspecting her feet Goldie screwed her face up a little. "No damage done. Hmm, McCormack did you say ? Any relation to Kyle McCormack ?"
"Oh, you've met him ?" Laughing softly I continued, "Um, yes and unfortunately he's my...brother."
 And at that they both giggled, and shook hands as Goldie introduced herself.
" I'm Goldie Horne, I gave your brother some riding lessons when he first came to that little riding establishment. He seems to be making ago of it. What brings you here to little old Pleasantville If you don't mind me asking ?"

Fascinating museum...such history.

"Clinching a business deal I hope. I'm a stock buyer of all kinds of fabrics and patterns. I um, work for 'Kali Fashions', have you heard of it ?"
"Sorry no, I don't go round in those circles I'm afraid. I give horse back riding lessons to anyone who needs them and other horsey related things. That's how come I met your brother. I gave him a few refresher lessons."
"Right. Hey this place is fascinating, but I have plans to visit the gym later on. Must get rid of a few calories and work up an appetite. I have a lunch date and I have my figure to think about."
Goldie payed me a compliment about me not needing to loose weight and offered to accompany me to the gym. 

Monday noon...the place Is the Gym...still in Pleasantville...
I'll have to pop to Kyles place for a shower and a change before I go to my lunch date Goldie I've just texted him as he's not picking up. Probably busy somewhere"
"No need, Pleasantville may be small but it's not a backward town. We have shower cubicles, changing rooms and a cafe area with good seating even the odd sofa dotted around. We could get a coffee before you go, if you like ?" 
"Great. Meet you in, say about 40 minutes." I payed the attendant and went to the changing rooms. Goldie went off into the cafe area.

Gee-whiz, I'm not that unfit surely.

Wow! don't they ever oil these things ? It sure is...strenuous. I think I've had enough. Time for a shower and change into that little number that matched my Jimmy Choo's. I don't think it's too short. I'll try and ring Kyle to tell him I won't be over to day after all...Shucks, gone straight to voice mail. 'Hey, brother dear, if you get this message I won't be over to day and...and you'll have payed just to hear this message so there!" Now to find Goldie for a coffee.

Still Monday 12:55pm...the place Is...the Cafe inside the Gym...
So now after ordering a Cappuccino..."Ooo! needed that. Just the right amount of milk to foam."
"Yes, I reckon they make the best Cappuccino here. Thats a nice dress you have on Dionne, and those shoes...are they...Jimmy Choo's ?"

The gym cafe...Hope my dress is not too short.

"Yes, I thought you didn't go 'round' in those circles." I smiled.
"I still know what they look like. I'm guardian to my best friends daughter and she has a lot of expensive shoes. Her parents are both dead...bad road traffic accident...poor kid, but that was a long time ago. Unfortunately I think she's heading for a disaster in the 'man thing', he's much too old for her and entirely unsuitable..." Goldie colored up as she realized who Kate's boy friend was. "Umm, do forgive me, it's just dawned on me...I-I have to be somewhere....I-I forgot all about it. Well it's been...nice talking to you."
"Okay, um, well thanks for the company and not to worry I have to get to my lunch date soon. Nice talking to you Goldie."
So I wonder what that was all about ?  Lets see, I have still time too check out the Library before lunch with Brad. Just between you and me nothing can come of any relationship with him as I've since found out he's married ! I'll teach him a thing or two, I'll just order the dearest of everything on the menu, should be a giggle.

Dionne Joins Us

Holiday Let, looking from front

A lot would be happening this weekend. Dionne, my sister had sent me email saying that as she would be working nearby sourcing out new fabric designs for the company she works for, 'Kali Fashions'. Her grand title is 'Stock Buyer', once the deal is made and the order has been met, it is shipped back to Seattle, where the business is based, and then transformed into top of the end designer clothes.
 Now what did the email specify ? Yup, one quick glance told me what I thought as much. The photos of the Holiday Let I'd sent her were...how did she put it...not up to her expectations and she would be checking into a nearby hotel. 

Hotel where Dionne stayed.

She's such a stuck up...well, she can be sometimes. I remember when we were little, (there's 4 years difference between us) we were playing this war game together on our Nintendos and of course she just had to win otherwise I was minced meat. I mean, what's the use of being a team on a game if I was never allowed to get there or do something first. She always had to be the one to try things first or else I would pay for it later...and she could punch and pinch. And tell lies to mom or dad, and get away with it. 
Look where her attitude had got her today. Flying round the globe, visiting different countries with their own cultures and food. Tasting local food as it should be. Not any copy of it from your local outlet ! Do I sound jealous ? Ah! Yes, Dionne was and is still very competitive and woe-be-tide anyone who stands in her way. Come to think of it, no wonder she's still single. 
 Dionne was supposed to be coming to my place the same day as the Happy Hooves Day. While I was watching the Kids riding in the manege, the tune to The Good, The Bad and the Ugly rang out from my cellphone. Caller display read... 'Dionne'.
 "Hi Dionne, how's it going ?"
 "Sorry brother dear but I won't be able to drop by today after all. Um, somethings come up but I'll come round tomorrow."
 "Oh, that's a pity, more work is it ?" I enquired.
 "Something like that, I've had to arrange...a business dinner...with a client. I have to haggle a bit to get some fabric at the right price. It...can't be helped, work comes first. You know me." This was said with a slight lilt in her voice. I knew when she weren't telling the whole truth.
I carried on, " Yeah, you need to impress this um, client yeah. Well sweet talk him all you like Sis."
 "And what makes you think it's a male client Kyle ?"
I could hear the irritation creep into her voice. I laughed into the phone, "Just make sure you get here Sis before this foal you mentioned in your email that you wanted to see grows up !"
 "When I've seen the foal, we could hang out somewhere." suggested Dionne.
 "Okay. What about going swimming at the Lido, um Kate will be with me...Yup,we could eat out after...No you wouldn't be playin' gooseberry, you could bring your dinner date...ha ha. Catch yer later then...Bye."
Later on.....
So now having caught up on news, and seeing the foal as yet with no name, we all piled into Dionne's rental car and headed for Pleasantville Lido.

My sister Dionne

 Dionne wore a purple bikini and after swimming a few lengths was content to sit on the edge of the pool, watching me and Kate 'play'. Kate shrieked out loud as I pushed her in the water. Then jumping out of the water she ran round the back of me and it was my turn to get pushed in. We played seeing who could hold their breath under the water the longest...I won of course. There were water jets at one end of the pool, so that was a great place to fool around in. 
"Don't you dare." squealed Kate.

I didn't push Kate...honest!

 I looked to see where my sister was, she was sunbathing on a lounger. She shouted over, "Leave her alone Kyle or I'll come and start on you, we girls have to stick together, right Kate ?"
  Later we changed and went to the Stroppy Mare Diner to eat. "How long you over here for Sis ?"
 "Couple of days. I Might go to the County Historical Museum tomorrow. Then, I see you have a decent gym in town or if  don't feel energetic, I'll try out the Library. Mmmm, this food is good...for a Diner"

Happy Hooves Day Is Upon Us, Again.

Saturday is upon us and six kids are due anytime now. Make that seven. Never mind, Ty will keep them in check. First, Ty showed them how to muck out, then how to clean the tack. I could tell by some kids faces that they would rather be riding then listening to rules and regulations. That would come later. 
 Now came the time to sort which horses the kids would be dealing with for the day.

Tony with Lady

"This is Lady. Tony, you will share her with Leroy. Just remember she's a bit ticklish under her belly." Tony, was in a quandary as to how to get Lady to pick her feet up for him. Ty showed him how to stand to one side of the horse and touch Lady's leg, the one that was needed, so as she would raise it in readiness for cleaning out dirt and stones or just to inspect it. I had been through the process with Ty earlier that morning, telling him which horse didn't like this or that also showing him which brush to use and for what. He had wrote it down and put the notes in his pocket just in case he had said.
 Ty continued, "Some horses don't like certain parts of them touched, so you have to be gentle with 'em talking to 'em, letting them know you ain't gonna hurt 'em." 

Leroy, Jessica and  one of the twins...Stacey I think?

 "How do you know which parts they don't like touched ?" This came from Jessica, the chubby kid with hair color like Kate's which was tied in two bunches.
 "You'll soon find out" grinned Ty.
"Yeah, when they kick or bite you." came back Leroy, the only black kid who had enrolled.
 "Right, here are the brushes and hoof-picks." Ty looked round at some worried faces, "Don't worry, I'll show you first, you won't get hurt. This is Flint." Ty had a quick look at his notes from his pocket. "He loves getting brushed and will pick his feet up for anyone. He's a softy. Who wants him ?
 A chorus of, Me! Me! Me ! greeted Ty's ears, so he chose the twin girls, Stacey and Larna. Better him then me I thought, not wanting to be the 'evil man' who wouldn't give them the horse they wanted.
 "Who gets Drifter, the pretty Palomino ?" The rest of the kids without assigned horses chimed up.
 "Sorry, he's not being used today. It's his day off and he's feeling a bit under the weather." Ty told them.
"Jessica, Smokie is yours, he's a 'gentleman', you'll be okay with him".
 "Now Pepper is rather tall but loves attention, so you boys, Jimmy and Johnny,(also twins) had better use the mounting block to get to the hard to reach places." Ty signalled to them calling each boy by the other ones name. "Gee, you two look so much alike, I'll get a name badge made out for you to wear".
  "We want one too." sing-sunged the other kids.
 "That's okay, I'm on it." Kate responded. She had been listening on the side lines.
Kate came back with the name badges and handed them out, when, "Whoops! Wrong twin." Kate quickly switched the badges over.
Ty, who's really good at sketching gave them each a pencil, crayons and an A4 paper to draw a picture of their respective horses and then color them in. This would keep them busy for a while.

Kate cooked the hot dogs

Lunch time...We left Kate cooking the hot dogs while me and Ty took the kids over to see Storm and her foal. I had put them in the field on the Holiday Let site. It was a good size with plenty of room for the foal to run-around in, about 3/4 of an acre or a little more according to my 'eye'. The kids loved watching the foal playing and galloping about around it's mom, and wrote their suggestions on a card for a name. Of course I told them how Storm had come with no name and how she got hers, the lucky winner would be told by email or over the phone in around two days time.

Storm and her foal

 "Okay kids back for hot dogs and ice-cream. The kids yelped and whooped all excited.
 Then Kyle, Kate and Ty, brought out the saddles and bridles. Saddles are heavy to pick up let alone swinging them onto the horses backs. At this stage I pointed out, how to do up a saddle.

Too heavy for kids to lift on their own

 "The Cinch keeps the saddle in place so it's important to tighten it up just right for it to stay put. Too loose and the saddle will slip leaving you hanging off the side of your horse or on the floor. Too tight and your horse won't be comfortable, it may even try to buck the saddle off and you in the process. This is because they must be able to fill their 'bellies' up with air to breath." I had serious little faces hanging on my every word. So with happy kids going round and round the manege and twins sharing their horses, till the parents turned up to take them home. Some tears were shed...by the kids not wanting it to end.

Storm's Secret Is Out

The Next day after  the beach party I woke up feeling groggy from too much alcohol...I guess. Groping around in bed I got a well deserved kick off Kate.

You gonna make me a coffee?

"Ouch Kate! You gonna get up and make me a black coffee ?" Kate moaned in protest and snuggled down further under the duvet, "Guess that's a no then." I sighed. After a few more minutes I got out from under the duvet and sat on the edge of the bed. Yawning, I rubbed the sleep from my eyes and ploughed my fingers through my unkempt hair.
"Think I'll have a shower first." I yawned again. Seeing as Kate was peering up from the duvet, I added "Unless you need me for anything." I wriggled my eyebrows suggestively.
Kate murmured, "No, go and have your shower and put some clothes on before you frighten your dog." She smiled, which quickly changed into her pulling a face and wrinkling her nose at me.
"What, Life (the name of my dog...or rather bitch), she wouldn't care whether I was dressed or naked, as long as she got fed...um, you want a coffee Kate ?"
"Yes please."
"Well get dressed then" I raised my voice and laughingly threw my dirty underpants at her.
Kate shrieked, sat up and flicked her hair away from her eyes revealing her breasts in the process.
"Wow, you are well formed Kate." I gave her a wide grin as I went for her. 
"Don't Kyle." She shrieked again throwing a pillow at me but missing.
"And just for that," I mock threatened....moving towards her.
Kate quickly retreated back under the duvet.....
                  *                               *                                    *                                           
Almost half an hour later I emerged from the bedroom and finally went for a shower and got dressed.
I put a few dog biscuits in Lifes' dog bowl. She wolfed them down. I bent down smiled at her and patted her head, "Um, you might need worming Life." I made coffee and pancakes with syrup and hoped the aroma would stir Kate outta bed. Meantime Life was running around me in circles. "No," I said sternly, "no more biscuits Life. You don't wanta get as fat as Storm do you?"...Storm needed to loose a little weight. I had wormed her some time back, just in case as I didn't know when her last owner had wormed her, or if Storm had ever been wormed. As I'd said before, some mares get benign ovarian tumors that can cause serious aggression problems, both towards horses and people and Storm sure was exhibiting some of these signs. At hearing me mention Storm by name, Life looked at me whined and backed away and kept barking. I hope she hadn't got on the short end of Storms' temper and been bitten.

 Kate appeared in the kitchen and blushed. I liked to make her blush and gave her one of my cocky grins.

"What's the matter with Life ? She seems rather excited about something."

Life wanted us to follow her

Life turned in circles then went to and fro towards the back door.
Kate laughed, "I think she wants us to follow her Kyle"
"Okay. Guess we'd better get it over and done with. Maybe she'll give us a bit of peace."
What a shock...or surprise we got!
In the field with Storm was a foal...a colt foal. It was gray like his mom, but it had a black mane and tail. Okay, so it was a bit scrawny and rather small but I can tell you I was...so relieved.
"Hi little fella," cooed Kate.

A bit scrawny but....

I pulled my cell phone out from my pocket and phoned Joe. "Hi Joe, you'll never believe what I've just found...No you're wrong on both accounts, Storms in front of me with a foal..." I chuckled and continued "No I don't know how I missed it either...Anyway, that explains a lot of things don't it...Storms fine, she's not biting she seems proud to show her foal off to us...Um, Kate's here with me she's smitten with it already...Well you know what women are like with b-a-b-i-e-s." I whispered this last word out. "Yeah, come over and see the foal sometime..." I ended the call.
"What are we going to call him Kyle ?"
"I don't have an inkling. Perhaps we could get some of the kids on Happy Hooves Day to come up with something appropriate ?"

Beach Party

When we arrived back from the copper mine It was just after 3pm. and Tyler would be due soon. Johnny helped me unsaddled the horses and give them a good wash down. As we did so I recounted some of the story of the ride to the copper mines while picking out the horses hooves and checking them over for any cuts they might have picked up. Johnny told me that he had taken quite a few phone calls from parents asking when and if we were doing anything for the kids like the "Happy Hooves Day" we had done before.
 Hmm, I could ask Tyler to help with it this time.
 I smirked... remembering the 'fun' Kate had last time. She ended up having to have a shower to get all the horse manure out of her hair. Boy ! She was mad at me for laughing at her, but she turned the tables on me and I had to agree to take her to that new Italian restaurant just opened up in Hidden Springs. The Blue Lagoon Restaurant as I recall...seems...such a long time ago now, looking back...yes...better ask Tyler, no tell Tyler that I'll require him this Sunday a full hour before starting time of 10am. That way I'd  have time to go over what I wanted him to do.
 "I've written the telephone numbers here on this note sheet said we'd call 'em back with details of next happy hooves day."explained Johnny handing me the piece of paper. Then just as Johnny left in his battered truck, Tyler pulled up on his cycle. 
 "Sorry I'm a bit late Mister McCormack." He leant his cycle up against the farmhouse.
 "How handy are you with an hammer and nails ?"
 "Not half as handy with a crowbar and baseball bat."grinned Tyler.
 Um, I didn't know which way to take Tylers last comment. Although come to think of it, I think he meant it. I got him to follow me to the barn and handed over the tool box to him.
 "Check the fences around the barn area and the fences over there." I pointed in the direction, "Anything needing fixing...fix it and make sure you drive the nails in real deep. For a moment I watched Lady rolling in the field getting dusty. So much for a good wash down! At least Drifter wasn't rolling...he was having a good long drink outta the water trough.

Lady had a roll

I made a few phone calls and once again got six kids enrolled in the next happy hooves day. I went and told Tyler that I was giving him the Important job of handling things with the kids and he seemed pleased that I could trust him with the job.
 My cell phone rang out. It was Kate. "Hi Kate nice to hear from you sweetie. What's on your mind ?....Well yes I do own a pair....When ?....Where ?....Okay you're on I'll meet you there." Seems like we were going to a  beach party tonight and it's bring your own swim trunks, ha ha!
 When Tyler left I made the usual checks on the horses, grabbed a bite to eat and took a shower. Next let's look in the fridge, see what I have to contribute to the party. Um, not much in here. I took out a pack of sausages and chicken drumsticks for the bar-b-que, that will have to do. Should I buy some drinks ? Perhaps I'll pick some up on the way to the beach.
I took one more look at Storm. Johnny had put her in a field on her own. I wish Joe could come soon and take a look at her else I would have to call the vet...a dear move, as call out charge would cost an arm and a leg. See what Joe thought. I patted Life and told her to guard the farm. She began to whine. "Sorry Life, you have to stay here, guard the place....understand ?" Life sat down mournfully looking at me. "That ain't gonna work either." I chastised, "Now be good." I gave her a few doggie

Picking up the drinks

biscuits, and got in the car, drove off into town and picked up a crate of Samuel Adams Lager and half a dozen 2 Liter bottles of soda, assorted flavors.

Sabrina Waterstone

 At the beach I handed over the stuff I had brought to Bud, the one in charge of burning the food...ha ha. There were a few people I knew here. Goldie Horne who helped me brush up on my riding...or lack of it.  And Imogen Pelly, Imogen worked in the library at Pleasantville. Then there was Chuck, he was one of the guys who cut and baled the hay from the meadow at my place when I first got there. Sabrina, who works at her parents book store Waterstones, also Colt Seabers the local deputy sheriff, plus a host of others I'd seen about town.
 Kate came running over to me, "Get your pants off and come with me quick." Well anything to oblige. I kicked off my shoes, stripped off my t-shirt and pants. Kate screwed her eyes up and looked away in mock bashfulness. Under my pants were my swim trunks. We ran down to the beach hand in hand. 
"Who's gonna be first for 'Surfing The Waves' ?" called out a youth named Chad. "Assemble here."  One person stood on top of a surfboard in the sea, the rest of the players had to place their hands beneath it and  begin to shake the board in order to topple the person standing on it into the water. The player who stayed on board the longest won. Lots of squealing and laughter came from boys and girls alike!

Whitney Houston number...

 Goldie strummed on her guitar and sang a Whitney Houston song, 'I want to dance with somebody'. While some folks sang along or danced to it, others tapped their feet, clapped their hands and nodded in time to the tunes she played.
 Next came 'Musical Beach Towels'. I lay on the beach in the still warm sand watching Kate play this one. The game goes like this...give your adult party guests a chance to dance around like children by playing this game. Begin by placing a line of towels on the sand, enough so you have enough for every player minus one. Have the players surround the beach towels and turn on some surfer music. The partiers then dance around the beach towels, one in front of the other. At a random moment, turn the music off. The players all have to hop on to one of the beach towels to stay in the game. Any player left out gets eliminated. After every round, take away a beach towel. Continue for several rounds until only one player remains, winning the game. Look at Kate go !
 Chuck was in charge of the next game he announced, "And now for all lovers of Top Gun we have Volleyball..." Lots of whooping!  "... so get your aviator shades on and...dogtags optional. Duck, dip and dive your way to victory in this classic American beach game. The object is to send the ball over the net in order to ground it on the opponent’s court. Don your best bod-bearing bikini but make sure it’s secure in all the right places," We all laughed...well the boys did. Chuck continued explaining, "as you’ll be doing a lot of jumping and, with ball under arm, prepare to impress with your spectacular volleyball manoeuvres. Either that, or be prepared to fall flat on your face while attempting to be Tom Cruise. Whatever your skill level, beach volleyball is one heck of an exciting game that will get your heart pumping."
 After half an hour of volleyball I grabbed Kate's hand, walked along the dunes and pulled her into an isolated place. It was subdued light here. The moon was out and the ambiance was certainly lending itself to thoughts of the romantic kind...if you catch my drift ! We lay down together behind the sand dunes, hearts a pumping. Not much to take off. Slow and easy...soft smooth skin rubbing against even softer smoother skin, each other kissing and exploring each other. Then it was like an explosion going off, which shattered in to a million shards. It seemed to go on and on with neither of us wanting it to stop. Afterwards, lying in each others arms we looked up at the stars. 

Back to the party

 "Hadn't we be getting back to the party Kyle ? People will miss us." she whispered, "Oh I wish it could last forever."
 "So do I Kate, so do I."

Copper Mine Ride

I had four clients booked in this morning. They had been to the County Historical Museum in town the day before and were intrigued about the copper mines in the hills above Pleasantville. They must of talked about the mines, so had phoned to make a booking to ride up there and take a look for themselves. I had told them that they wouldn't be able to to go in to the mines as they were unsafe and visits inside the mines were no longer being conducted. However, the views from the summit would be spectacular also a souvenir shop selling copper momentos' mined from long ago and a historian explaining things would be there.

Lorraine, Guy, Natasha and Clive on their respective mounts.

 Johnny helped me get the horses saddled up. Storm was looking like she was still putting on weight, as no one was riding her. Infact Johnny had put the saddle on her back but Storm wouldn't stand still while he fastened the cinch around her belly. He too had got the sharp end of Storm's teeth ripping his shirt ! In the end he had turned her into one of the fields. Joe, who had brought her over for me on the day of the storm hence the mare's name, said he would call round when he could as he felt responsible. Now I don't hold him responsible for the mare's conduct and I told him so, but any help was welcome.
 Ah ! Here come my clients now. "Hello there, welcome. Your mounts are ready." I let them pick which horses they fancied. Guy picked Smokie and his wife Lorraine got on Flint. Natasha climbed aboard Pepper with a little leg up from Johnny. Clive took his time mounting Lady, shouting over to me that he liked the look of Drifter and could he have Drifter instead. "The thing is," I advised Clive, "Drifter is more of a lead horse and I need you to follow me."

Riding Out

 So if a little reluctantly, Clive mounted Lady. "Head 'em up, move 'em out." shouted Clive, sniggering at his friends, trying to impress Natasha his fiancee, as I learnt she was.
  Oh, another bright Alec....or Clive thought I. I'll have to watch out for him and his lady friend.
 Guy and Lorraine on the other hand were more responsible. They seemed at ease walking next to each other on the way out.

All looked to the right.

 "And now if you look to your right," I nodded "You can just see the river over there, that's Red River. So named after the copper mine we're about to see. It flows past my place and carries on out in to the sea. 
 Following a dirt trail we eventually passed a large pool or reservoir where you could fish. Don't ask me how the fish got in there. Twisting to the left we carried on climbing up in to the mountainous hills. A deep gorge led to the main entrance to the mine.

Copper Mine

The souvenir shop was open with lumps of copper ore on display to buy also postcards from 'yesteryear' depicting a thriving business as it was back then. Copper bracelets, and various other objects, whether it all came from this mine is...debatable.

Copper Ore.

 Dismounting, the horses cinches were loosed out so as they could relax. I tied them to the hitching posts with water and hay.
 "This copper mine was founded in 1869 by John Baxter," announced the man in charge of explaining a bit about the history of this place, " there is a 50ft shaft with 2 adits. One is 215ft long whereas the second is over 275 ft . Where either a vertical shaft or an adit can be used to reach a mineral deposit, the generally lower cost of driving an adit, the saving in the cost of pumping water, and the ease of hoisting ore through the shaft dictate in favour of the adit. Consequently, adits as long as one to three kilometres (one or two miles) are often economically feasible. Occasionally a small amount of silver ore can be found too. You may have noticed some domed hills coming up here, that is where the slag heaps are, but now covered."
 "What's an adit ?" inquired Natasha.

Adit

  "An adit is a horizontal or near-horizontal passage driven from the Earth’s surface into the side of a ridge or mountain for the purpose of working, ventilating, or removing water from a mine.The size and cross section of an adit depend upon its use, with a horseshoe shape especially common. The walls may be of the natural rough rock or may be lined with concrete, wood, or steel. I hope that's answered your question enough." assured our historian.
 After listening and watching a film about the mine, a few purchases were made. Next we all sat down for lunch, took turns to look at the views with binoculars Clive had with him, and had a wonder about the place.
 "Notice the pools down there ? Seems like some were filled with fish so as the miners could have a fresh supply of fish to eat." I motioned.
 "They used another to bathe which wouldn't be very often."supplied Guy.
 Clive found that highly amusing and laughed crudely. Then it was time to head on back down the way we came down the steep twisty trail.

Nearly home.

 "Take your time going downhill, don't want you falling off. I don't know if you noticed on the way up...but I saw at least three red diamond-backed rattle snakes." I watched for their reaction which ranged from scarred to indifference. "It's okay, they're not usually aggressive however the venom is potentially dangerous to humans, so treat them with caution and respect.
 Here we are back and safe at the farm. "Hope you all enjoyed yourselves ?" They eagerly nodded in agreement. I handed out my business card to them. "And be sure to recommend me to your friends."

For Arguments Sake

Or People argue - Horses Bite !

A Verbal Warning

This was gonna be a day of arguments ! Don't ask me how I knew...I could just feel it in my bones. Women would call it 'Womens' Intuition' I guess. First I argued with Johnny when he came. I was waiting for him, I had a 'bone' to pick with him. He didn't tell me about some clients cancelling the other day...after I had just refused a booking of a party of six telling them we was all booked up for the rest of the day. Then today...Johnny had cost me quite a few $'s when he...mistakenly said we were all booked up for the day. Now where the hell did that come from ? Shaking my head in disbelief and to avoid anymore mis-understandings, we congenially agreed to avoid each other...where possible.
 I was still fuming when Kate appeared on the scene.
 "How's it going," she only had to take one glance at my face, "What's the matter Kyle ?"
 "This is off the record Kate, Johnny just cost me a nice earner yesterday and today. I'm thinking of firing him." I turned away hoping my further irritation didn't show.
 "Oh...So, how's Ty working out ?" Tactfully changing the subject !
 "Not bad, not bad at all Kate. What brings you round at this time Kate, although I'm not complaining." I drew her into me and and gave her a hungry kiss.
 "Back off Kyle, Sofia was supposed to meet me here, we're going for a ride along Dead Wood Valley." She anxiously examined her wristwatch and added, "She should of been here by now."
 "Come and have a coffee with me Kate, she's probably just been held up."
 "Well as long as it only is a coffee."
 While drinking coffee we sat on the sofa and switched on the t.v. to while away some time. I shuffled closer to Kate and put my arm around her shoulder and kissed her earlobe.
 The television burst in to life...'For some people this would be the best Kids Meal toy ever. Not so much for the Michigan man who bought it for his 4-year-old grandson'...The newscaster raised his eyebrows and continued reading off the auto-cue...' When the kid opened the bag, he found a pipe packed with marijuana. The police questioned a 23-year-old employee who reportedly admitted the pipe was his. He allegedly wanted to hide it while working, so apparently he thought, what better place than a Kids Meal bag ?'... 
 "Oh that's unbelievable, who would do such a thing?" gasped Kate.
The report continued...'The employee and two of his friends were cited for possession of drug paraphernalia, and could face more formal drug possession charges. Burger King has apologized to the family and said they have a zero-tolerance drug policy."...as the newscaster shuffled his notes on the news deck, he was heard to say, "Aww, man!" I imagine that every Michigan stoner will be rushing to Burger King right now."

Captivated By The Little People

 Kate's mouth dropped open, "Did you hear that Kyle ? I bet the switchboard will be flooded with complaints! What's your view on drugs ?" Then she looked straight at me her eyes burning a hole in mine, waiting for an answer.
 After a long deliberation, I replied, "Well, I think you have to be a fool if you mess with drugs....Oh, hello Life." Kate made a fuss of Life which drew her attention away from questioning me any further, and as I already said to my mother when she visited me some time ago, that  I was all done with that scene.

Storm Went For Me

 After a little while I got up to check on Storm who was in the strip field on the side of the farm. Kate got up and followed me while Life decided to stay and watch t.v. I already think I told you that Life was fascinated of how people got inside such a little box, silly dog. 
 "Wow, what's the matter with you today Storm ?" I recoiled from a well aimed bite. I went to find Johnny to see if he could come up with any explanation for Storm's aggressive ways. Horses bite for many reasons. Dominance, play, fear, impatience, irritation, frustration, pain just to name a few. Some mares get benign ovarian tumors that can cause serious aggression problems, both towards horses and people.  There are also other conditions that can cause aggression. A blood test for hormone levels is a good idea as a starting point for a horse that is persistently aggressive. Needless to say Johnny thought I getting at him and another argument erupted. Well I wasn't !

Kate Argues With Sofia

 Kate phoned Sofia seems she had completely forgotten the arrangement to go riding with Kate. Now it was Kate's turn to fume ! She ordered a taxi and went over to Sofia's place where she also had an argument with Sofia.

It Happens To Us All...

 I let out a big sigh. Seems my laptop had died on me. Then I had a brain wave. I'm sure Kate had said that Tyler was into computers. Where would I find him ? I found him sitting on the ground by the hay storage with what looked like a sketch pad in his hand, sketching away oblivious to my approaching steps. As I got nearer I could see just make out his drawing of a deserted railway I think it was. Looks good! Tyler got up fast.

Tyler with his sketch pad

 "Oh, Mister McCormack I-I, I've finished, so I thought I would -" I didn't let him finish the sentence.
 "Kate says you know about computers and things, only the dog's just gone and mucked my laptop up. Could you come and sort it out for me ?"
 "Sure, cool." Tyler put his sketch pad into his carryall and hung it on his cycle handlebars as we went past.
 As I was explaining what had happened a few minutes ago, Tyler seemed to be distracted looking down at the power adaptor. Was he taking any of this in I wondered ?
 Tyler spoke up, "That seems to be your problem Mister McCormack," explained Tyler pointing to the power adaptor on the floor, "your power lead seems to of come apart." Tyler bent down and re-inserted the offending lead into the adaptor. When switched on, the laptops battery indicator showed that it was empty and now charging.
 "How did that happen ?" I muttered scratching my head.
 "Must of been like it a while and you hadn't noticed that the battery was being drained." suggested Tyler
 "But it should of warned me that I only had a little battery power left and to plug into another source.
Hang on I think I got distracted last time I used it. That must of been it." I shrugged feeling some what like the clown idiot.
 "It happens to us all. One time I...."....and Tyler went on to relate what had happened to him on numerous occasions. There we were, chuckling away at some idiotic things we both had done. "So you see, you cant blame Life for just what happened to your laptop."pointed out Tyler.
 "Guess you're right, I'll make it up to her later. You hungry ?"
 Tylers face lit up.

A Plate Of Autumn Salad Mix

 "Guess that means a yes then. I have some salad and chicken in the refrigerator."
 Tyler looked uneasy. 
 "Um, I'll just have salad." responded Tyler.
 "Don't tell me you're a vegetarian.
 "Yeah,..."
 "Okay, I have cheese, you have no objection to cheese do you ?"
 "Cheese is cool." 
 "Right, can you get the salad outta the fridge while I make the coffee....or would you rather have a coke ?"
 "Coke will be fine for me."
 We ate inside. Tyler looked at the clock on the wall. "Think I'll have to be going now Mister McCormack."
 I followed him outside. He mounted his cycle.

Ty's Railway  Sketch

 "I noticed one of your sketches Ty, it was good."
 "Thanks, I may be going to art school...if I'm good enough."
 "Right, see you tomorrow." I waved him off. 
 Now to find Life and try to apologize...huh! listen to me...aint it funny...me, apologize to a dog ? Life came to my call for her, slinking low on the ground, head to one side, doleful eyes...how could I have been so cruel to this dumb animal.
 "I'm sorry Life...will you forgive me ?" I gently lifted her muzzle up to face me head on.
 Life sat bolt upright. Up went her ears, quite comical really, head cocked first to one side then the other and licked my face. 
I think she forgave me...don't you.?