First on the list today for Edward after daily chores was sharpen his skills as a muck piler. Out came the old tractor and a big smile on Ed's face. Good thing I warned him before hand that I am prone to yelling commands over the noise of the tractor. Maureen says that I actually am yelling at the trainee! UP... UP... FORWARD... CLUTCH... STOP... CLUTCH... DUMP... Phew, that's hard work giving commands like that. Even more stressful watching. He did do a great job though. Lots of credit to him.
The boss was back for a short time today. Edward and I pulled up to the house with the heavy equipment to dispose of a pile of branch rubble that had been next to the driveway since last fall. Edward has been great learning how to use the old tractor. We got the chipper attached and proceeded to attack the pile of branches. The noise must have been too much for Maureen to ignore. Within a few minutes order was restored to our task (as if there was chaos anyway). In any event, Edward and I now had the proper guidance to ensure the task was completed to satisfaction. The boss was back. Edward was happily cutting away clearing the area. Within an hour we accomplished our goal and it was time for the evening chores and some riding.
At that point the call and smells of the barn were too irresistible for Maureen to stay up at the house and watch the activity from the deck. As we loaded the truck and drove the tractor away, Maureen was firmly planted on the tailgate saying she was ready! We all were. The animals were all glad to see her. Especially me. After chores were done, of course with Maureen only giving guidance and itching to pick up a brush, Edward and I saddled up to try going a bit further today down the road. This time though it wasn't to be. One of the neighbors was celebrating the 4th a little late with their gun. Every shot made Roman, the black Morgan, tremble even harder. Then there was the rapid fire burst. That was the last straw. Roman decided they were after him and feet firmly planted, started trembling so hard I felt like I was sitting is a vibrating lounge chair that also included the rhythm of his heart beat. So much for a pleasant ride. We were back at the barn in no time at all. Luckily the gunfire had ceased and he went back at a walk.
Well, time to get on to the next item on the list. You only know how much of a team you are when part of the team is not there. I guess I have that to look forward to when Maureen is off to England in September. The best part of the trip is when I am there at the airport to pick her up!
Take care and stay safe.
Greg