Hello my friends, and welcome to another exciting edition of the Gimli Gazette, where beauty, goodness, and truth come together to bring you all the news about Mercy Spring Ranch that is fit to print.
The ranch was filled last week with five folks hoping to become horse handlers, and one official observer. They were receiving training on horse safety and basic equine skills that will make their time on the ranch more productive.
Most of the students were exhausted by the end of this first training. I really put them through their paces, making sure that they have what it takes to enter the dynamic world of Gimli Black.
The volunteers started out with basic instruction in grooming. This is an area which I don’t take lightly. With so many paparazzi trying to take my picture at all hours of the day, it is critical that I always look my best. Every hair needs to be clean and in its place, if I am to continually make the cover of Horse Vogue.
Next came training with the rope halter. One does not just toss a rope over a horse’s head and think that their work is done. A special knot is needed that will not chafe my delicate face. If the knot is not tied properly, the halter will be on the ground in no time.
Finally, the students had to learn how to properly guide the horses in and out of their paddocks. The gate should only swing one way, and the handler needs to be in control of the situation at all times. I allowed the trainees to walk with me on a tour of the ranch, so that I could instruct them on the finer points of horse handling.
All of the volunteers did a fine job during their first lesson. I plan to work closely with each one as they refine their skills. I can teach them much about the way of horses if they are open to my instruction (and generous with horse cookies).
After the handler training, light poles were installed around the ranch as part of an ongoing project to improve the facility. The crew was able to get them installed before the rain started. My direct supervision of the crew enabled the work to be completed more efficiently. There are pictures on Facebook to prove it!
Well that’s all for this posting. I will have more to say when the weather gets warmer and we prepare for sessions with the children.
Happy Trails,
Gimli January 22, 2024