Hello again, faithful readers. It is time for another exciting episode in the continuing saga of Gimli at Mercy Spring Ranch (MSR).
This has been a rough week at the ranch. It started last week with Connor having issues with his head shaking. A phone call was made, and Dr. Kami came to the rescue once again. She applied an acupuncture technique which seems to have helped him a lot. You can read all about it (and watch a short video of Connor with needles sticking out of his face) on the MSR Facebook page.
Then yours truly developed an allergic reaction to some nasty substance (as yet unknown). My skin began to break out in hives, which soon turned into welts as I scratched them. It was most unpleasant. Fortunately “Nurse Mo” was quick on the scene to provide medicine and extra baths. Connor even shared some of his allergy medications with me. Soon my discomfort eased, and I began to feel better.
I appreciate all the children (and adults!) who were praying for my recovery. I do not like being sick (it brings out my grumpier side). Miss Mo deserves a special shout-out for all of the loving care she poured out on me during this whole ordeal. It almost makes me feel bad for all my 3am rehearsals on my percussive feeder that wake her up in the middle of the night. (I say almost, because suffering is the price we ALL must pay for great art!).
I got three great questions this week from a young lady in the sessions. She writes, “I haven’t ridden you much in the arena, so I am still getting to know you, Gimli. What is the most mischievous trick that you have ever played on Miss Mo? What is one of your favorite plants to nibble on when you shouldn’t? And what is your favorite spot in the pasture?”
Well, my favorite prank to pull on Miss Mo is taking her cellphone out of her back pocket when she is not looking. I often get an idea for a new song while I am in the arena, and I want to call my agent right away. It’s too far to go back to my paddock to get my own cellphone (and besides, it is constantly ringing with calls from all of my fans — which is a good thing). As soon as Miss Mo turns her back to me, her phone is mine!
As for the second question, ALL plants are fair game for me. I have been known to drag a child or two along the way if it means that I can sooner enjoy a nibble of fresh greenery.
And finally, my favorite spot in the pasture is wherever the highest grass is located. If I see food, I will make a beeline to beat the other horses to it. (My second favorite spot on the ranch is my feeder, where I can eat and make music at the same time!).
Well, that’s all for this week. There is so much going on the ranch each week with all the volunteers helping out, sessions with the children, and the daily horse drama within the herd. I will never run out of things to talk about!
Happy Trails,
Gimli June 21, 2022