Well, even though I have an ancient philosophy paper due tomorrow, I'm here, writing this. I'm going to go ahead and call this my warm-up blurb. Thanksgiving is so close, I can taste it

Simon is doing well, his progress has slowed but he no longer snarls at anyone or anything and realy loves his walks in spite of being charged by several loose dogs. Poor thing, he's such a wuss. Sweetest little boy, he'll always be my guy, but I'm determined to make him at least comfortable with others. He's at tolerant right now, but I wouldn't call him comfortable. It's like he has flash backs to how he used to react, because if I block his flee behavior he calms right down. Ah well, we've only been together for a month and a half, not even remotely as long as he was in the shelter.

On to horse news. Roy is going back to work which is good because he's so chunky, hahhaa. I went penning Saturday! Tucker was really revved up, he was all wiggly while I was registering and jiggy when I got on, but no bucking or bolting when he got excited so I really think he's finally maturing. I was pretty pleased with him actually. He started off just wanting to cut and wanting to choose cows for himself, but by the last run, we cut out three and sent back a dirty on our own. He is a brilliant cowhorse, but Roy is still the better penner. I'm thinking of going to sorting with Tucker, I think that would be more his style. Though he does love to run... Ah well, we'll see where he goes. I get to ride tomorrow! Whoo! And Friday is another cutting clinic with the string cow. I'm excited. Plus I have two house-sitting/pet-sitting jobs this week. $$ I'm not a money hound, but I'm not going to complain when I have some to spend around the holidays.

There is going to be a raffle for the clinician, he was injured and can't fully work for 3 months to support their special needs son. I'm going to donate a saddle, a headstall and reins, polo wraps, and whatever else I can find when I hunt around. He's a great guy and terrific trainer who I would love to help out.

A few of my friends are really having hard times right now, whether from health or emotion, and I'd like to ask anyone who reads this to think of them and send good thoughts to those who are having problems- especially when so many families are celebrating.

Happy holidays!