Week 23 – Germany

Monday morning it was white with snow, and the temperature was 0 degrees – nice and warm. The ride to our boys was really nice, very little wind. Our boys were happy to see us – Peri banging in the stable door like usual. Our boys enjoyed their time out in the paddock, after all it was nice and warm. The little buggers actually escaped, they managed to open the paddock gate, but not a problem, they went straight to the first patch of green grass, where we caught them. By the time we went home, all the snow was melted and there was water dripping off everything – the temperature was +5 degrees. Then it started raining, fortunately we were already in doors. By the time we went to our boys in the afternoon, it had stopped raining, but it was starting to get colder. We had to go via the Klatte offices, on our way to our boys, to pick up a parcel that Roz had sent – DVD’s lots of them J On the way from the offices to our boys, it started raining again, softly but it was still raining. After we tucked our boys in we braved the rain, and cycled home.

Tuesday morning the weather was miserable, but at least it was not raining. Our boys were happy to go out while we mucked their stables. It was quite warm, at 3 degrees, so they were not in too much of a hurry to come in. Once they were finished running around they were happy to come in and have their grass. The afternoon cycle was interesting, a little rain, a little wind, but not too cold. Once our boys were all tucked in, we were off home again.

Wednesday was miserable and rainy – on and off, most of the day. When we got to our boys in the morning, it stopped raining long enough to let them out while we mucked their stables, needless to say the paddock was very muddy, and our boys had to roll, blankets and all. It takes us longer to “groom” their blankets than it does to groom them – at least they have fun. Our boys still have “snotty” noses in the mornings, but nothing during the day, so that is a good sign. When we went to them in the afternoon, the sun stuck it’s head out for about half an hour, then it was gone again, so we tucked our boys up for bed and went home.

Thursday morning the sun was shining, and we were looking forward to having a sun shine day – but that was not to be, by the time we got to our boys, it was miserable again, and drizzling. Our boys went out in between rainy patches, and managed to get really messy – I guess they just love it. So once again it took quite a while to clean their blankets. The rest of the day was spent sewing up Peri’s blanket – Yes! You guessed it, these two boys are having turns ripping their blankets. In the late afternoon, we took the repaired blanket back to the stables.

Friday morning it was wet and rainy again – we are getting used to cycling in the rain now. Our boys were really wanting out, and thoroughly enjoyed playing in the paddock – needless to say both of them were really dirty when it was time to come in. It took a really long time to get their blankets clean – seriously I wish we had enough money to buy them paddock blankets. We had to go into town twice today, to fetch a parcel and to get some carrots for our “starving” boys, unfortunately we only found out about the parcel after we had gone shopping. Our boys really enjoyed their carrots before they were tucked up for the night.

Saturday was rainy and miserable again – I miss the sun, and the wind was blowing. It was quite warm though at 6 degrees, so our boys enjoyed running around the paddock in the mud, getting dirty. After mucking their stables they were brought in, and the great groom started again – blankets, legs, feet and body. By lunch time we were finished, and off we went home, just to have to cycle back in the afternoon in the wind, so we can tuck our babies in for the night – spoilt brats. Once our boys were tucked in, and given some carrots, we were on our way home again.

Sunday morning there was wind, lots of it, just to make our lives a little more interesting. We ran out of airtime – the silly thing just says it is finished, no warning, so we decided to ride into town – against the wind, to topup, just to realize it is Sunday and everything is closed – man!!! why can’t we get that right. By the time we got to our boys, it was raining, so we did their water and grass while they were in their stables, then the rain stopped, and they could go and play – what a mess. Our boys had a really good time, before we brought them in to get cleaned up. Then it was time to give Bailie his well needed Pedicure, what a job, but his feet look really sexy again. On the cycle home, it started sleeting, and man! does it sting when the wind is blowing. In the afternoon the sun stuck it’s head out, and we had a dry but windy cycle to our boys. Once they had everything for the night (grass and water), we were on our way home – and yes! The wind was still blowing – what is it with this wind?

Monday morning we were up bright and early to get to the stables so we could see the vet. Man!! it was cold -14 degrees, we froze our butts off. Well the vet was a very nice, and she gave Bailie and Peri some medication. By lunch time Bailie was feeling better already. In the afternoon we rode back to our boys to give them their meds. Bailie’s temperature was down, and he was eating his grass and carrots, but still not his food, but he is on the mend, which is a good thing. Peri just got some anti-biotic to stop him from coughing and to clear up his nose. The vet will be coming back to treat Bailie for the next couple of days. At 5pm we rode home, and the moon was in the sky, a real pretty sight. By the time we got home, the sun was setting, it was really beautiful – it makes you realise how blessed you are, and what a miracle life is, and it gives you hope, that everything will be alright.

Tuesday was really cold -15 degrees. The cold is not the problem, the problem is the wind, it blows so hard, that it makes our cycle to and from the stables a lot harder. Our boys were happy to see us, and we were happy to see them, as both Kayla and I are getting a little despondent with being away from our family now, it has been such a long time since we saw them last. Both our boys are feeling much better, and are definitely on the mend. The vet came to give Bailie his muti (Intravenously) in the afternoon, and is happy with his progress. We really looking forward to our boys getting better, so we can carry on with our trip to Canada. Unfortunately there are always ups and downs in ones life, and today our up was that Miley had a little healthy filly, in SA (Peri is a daddy again), and our boys are on the mend, and our down is that we are both feeling down, and missing our family, and frustrated with having to cycle in the wind (seems very trivial, but I guess it was the straw that broke the camel’s back) I guess we have to remain positive and believe that the Lord has a plan for us.

Wednesday morning, it was a lot warmer, only -5. The ride to our boys was really good, the wind was from behind yippee! Our boys were happy to see us. They are still not over their coughs, but are on the mend. After mucking their stables and grooming our boys, we went to have a look at the mini donkeys that are in quarantine, they were so cute. In the afternoon the vet came to give Bailie his last injections, now they can both go onto a powder anti-biotics, and she was happy with our boys lungs. Our boys were allowed to go out for a few minutes, for a walk in the paddock, to get their lungs working again, and they loved it. After a good walk they were happy to go back into their stables. After wrapping them up for the night, it was time to head home, against the wind – the wind turbines are one of the signs of the strength of the wind – the faster they turn the harder the wind is blowing, and today they were spinning. Once we got home, we played with the ice in the bird bath, it was frozen solid, and we had a walk around the garden, after all it was quite warm compared to the last couple of days.

Thursday morning was quite warm at only -3, what a relief. Unfortunately the wind turbines were still spinning really fast. Our boys were happy to go out for a while in the paddock and socialize, and get their lungs working again. Both of our boys are doing much better – the only problem we still have is trying to get Bailie to eat his food. I even grated carrots to add to his food, I have tried adding apple juice, but nothing, he just won’t eat it. At least he is eating his grass, and carrots. Our boys are still getting medication twice a day, so we still have to go to and from the stables twice a day, and in this wind it gets pretty hectic – Hey!! But at least we are getting fit.

Friday morning was another beautiful morning, sun shinning, and only -3. When we got to the stables, Bailie gave us a surprise, he ate all his breakfast. I mixed his meds in some food, and he also ate that – thank the Lord Bailie is doing better. Both our boys noses are clear, their temperatures are normal, and they are looking happier. We let our boys out in the paddock, and they both enjoyed the sun, even though we still have them wrapped up really well. Bailie ate his food in the afternoon again, with his meds – I am so glad, now I don’t have to mix his meds and give them to him in a syringe – that gets so messy. We then tucked them in for the evening before we headed home.

Saturday morning was really miserable and the wind was blowing – surprise. Our boys had eaten all their breakfast, their noses were fine, and both their temps were fine Both their automatic water feeders had defrosted, so they could both drink from them, but we still put in water buckets, and they both still prefer to drink from the buckets. While we mucked their stables we let them go out in the paddock, and Bailie started squealing and chasing Peri again, which is a good sign. By lunch time the sun stuck it’s head out for a while, but the wind still blew. Every time I tell Kayla to do something, she says I am just like a wind turbine – telling her things she does not want to do, or know. The afternoon cycle was hard again – you would think we were used to it by now, but somehow we just can’t get used to it. Our boys were both fine, and both ate their meds without any problems. We gave our boys grass, then tucked them in for the night, and cycled home again.

Sunday morning it was -3, not bad. Just as we started cycling to our boys it started snowing – it was so cool cycling in the snow. We gave our boys the last of their meds, filled up their water – Bailie’s automatic feeder was frozen again, and then it was time to let them out so we could muck stables. By this time it had stopped snowing, and our boys went out in a white paddock. They ran around like hooligans, and Bailie pretended to kick Peri while Peri chased him, so I would say our boys are going to be just fine. After mucking their stables, they were glad to come in, and eat grass. Kayla and I cycled home – the wind was blowing the other way, so the cycle to the stables was harder than the cycle home – in fact the cycle home was very pleasant. In the afternoon when it was time to go and check on our boys – fill water and grass, it started snowing again, so we cycled in the snow again. After filling up hay nets, and water buckets our boys were tucked in for the night with some carrots. The cycle home was very pleasant again, everything pretty and white. By the time we got home it had stopped snowing again.

Kayla and I are quite heartbroken, we should have been leaving tomorrow, but are now delayed because our boys got sick, and my work permit for Canada is not ready yet. We can only pray very hard that our boys are totally recovered soon (they have to fly naked – no blankets, so they have to be 100%), and that my work permit is ready soon – so I guess we have another couple of weeks in Germany. This has been a very long trip for all concerned, humans and horses.

Monday morning – the start of another week to get closer to our family in Canada. The whole place was white with snow – really pretty. My ride to our boys was really cold and windy, but so pretty. While I mucked our boys stables, they were out in the paddock. Peri ate the snow off the paddock poles, it was so funny to watch. Our boys were glad to get back into their warm stables. I then went to town to do the shopping we could not do on Sunday. Then it was back home, battling the wind all the way. In the late afternoon I had re-do the trip to and from the stables to blanket, and give our boys their muti – they both have snotty noses, and the wind still was blowing. Man!!!! It is exhausting riding in the wind, but at least our boys are warm for the night.

Tuesday and Wednesday were basically the same. We went to our boys in the morning, in the cold, the thermometer outside the bank said it was -9 degrees, so it was cold. Bailie’s automatic water feeder was frozen as well. The wind was really strong both days, so the ride home is really hard. In the afternoon we went to give our boys their muti, and by Wednesday Peri’s nose was clear, but Bailie’s was not quite dry yet.

Thursday was cold again -10. Kayla and I had to go to Dortmund for our medicals for our Canadian visas. We used a few modes of transport, train, underground, taxi’s and mostly our legs, and it took 3 hours each way, but the day was a success, and we got everything done. We only got home after 8pm, so we never got to see our boys, which was really sad.

Friday morning was Michael and Kayla’s birthday. We were sad that we were not all together, but we made the best of it. Kayla got to open her presents in bed, then it started snowing – the Lord gave her what she wanted – snow for her birthday. So after presents and breakfast we went to our boys, and rode our bicycles in the snow, while it was snowing – Kayla was so happy, even though it was -11. When we got to our boys they were already out in the paddock while the stables were being cleaned. Bailie had broken his blanket – silly boy, so I quickly changed his blanket, and then we finished off the stable mucking and brought our boys in. Bailie is still coughing a little, and Peri just has a runny nose. Then we gave our boys a good groom, and they having their blankets taken off to be groomed, it sorts out all the itches. It was then off to town for some groceries – we can only buy what can fit on the bicylces. We also had to get some buckets from Barbara for water for our boys, because of the water feeders being frozen. After sorting out our horses water, it was time to head home, loaded with Bailie’s blanket as well, so I can sew it back together – it is times like these that I miss my sewing machine. The pipes in the house were frozen, so the owner had to come and put some extra insulation on them, so we were out of water until late in the evening – what is with us and no water (we had no water in Mauritius as well) By the time we went to bed everything was back to normal J All in all I think Kayla enjoyed her Birthday. We managed to speak to Michael on the phone, but he was just waking up – the time difference gave Kayla her birthday a few hours before Michael – that is a first.

Saturday morning everything was still white, but it was not snowing. Our boys were happy to see us. Unfortunately both boys were still coughing, and still had snotty noses, but their temperatures were still normal, so we just wrapped them up warm. The wind was blowing again, so riding our bicycles was quite hard. We unfortunately had to go into town to get airtime – we have a great system, it only tells you when it is finished, no warning – Eish!!

Sunday morning, the snow had gone from the bicycle paths, but I can’t think that it melted, because it was still between -9 and -11 degrees. When we got to our boys they were happy to see us, and we mucked their stables, groomed them. Bailie had a slight temperature, and was not a happy boy, so we wrapped him up even more. In the afternoon, we came to check on Bailie again, and his temperature had gone up, and he is not eating so the vet had to be called. The vet will come on Monday morning to treat Bailie. Peri is still coughing, but he is still eating, and his temperature is normal. Oh! How I hope our boys will get better quickly.

Monday morning the weather was good, and we had a great ride to our boys, and were ready for another week in Germany. When we arrived at the stables, the little Tinker was already gone to the other quarantine stables, so we will not see her again – pity! Peri and Bailie got groomed, and they got their pedicured (Rasped their feet, to keep them from cracking). When you finished doing that, you are finished, in more ways than one.  One day closer to getting to our destination, and seeing our family again.

Tuesday morning the sun was shining – yippee!! and there was no wind, so we had the most glorious ride to our boys. Our boys had had a blast in the lunge ring, and were sand from head to toe. It took quite a while for us to get them clean. The sun was still shining when we went home, but it was getting colder. It rained softly in the afternoon, but it was definitely a beautiful day.

Wednesday morning the mist was so thick we could not see down the road. We braved the mist and rode to our boys, where we were surprised that they were not in the lunge ring, fortunately Barbara was there to tell us they were in the outside paddocks – before we started panicking. Our boys really enjoyed getting dirty in the paddock, and I think they enjoyed their time out, even if they were starting to get cold. We brought our boys in, and once again, it took quite a while to get them clean – but they had fun, and that is all that counts. When we were finished, it was really starting to get cold, and I think our boys were happy to be in their stables again, with their day sheets on. We went with Barbara to lunch, and the food was really good. Barbara then took us with her to a little tack shop – I just love browsing, they have such cool stuff here. Barbara spoilt us, and bought us each a winter hat made by horseware – she is a total fan of horseware – it is a little pricey for us because we are converting from rand, but the products are brilliant. After a lovely day with our boys and Barbara, it was time to ride home – and man was it cold, we appreciated the hats we got.

Thursday morning it was beautiful and clear, but very windy, so needless to say our trip to the stables took a while. It was freezing cold, and when we got to the stables our boys were out in the frozen paddocks, but Barbara put paddock blankets on them – I thought they looked like war horses. We brought our boys in, and let them have a “romp” in the indoor lunge ring. We then gave them a groom, and blanketed them. The ride home was also slow, as the wind had not given up yet.

Friday morning was a lovely sunny day – cold but sunny. Our boys got to romp in the lunge ring again, and were happy to go into their stables to get cleaned and groomed. Our boys wear their blankets all the time – shame the poor guys are getting cold. The wind was not blowing, so the ride to and from our boys was really nice.

Saturday it was really clear, sunshine, and no wind. We had a good, but cold ride to our boys. They were out in their paddocks with the paddock blankets on, looking like war horses again. After bringing our boys in, and grooming  them, it was time to ride home again. So Kayla and I decided to do something crazy, we decided to take our saddles home to clean them and their covers. So we put the saddles on our bicycles, and rode home with them – that was a sight. We had a really good laugh, Kayla went “wobbling”  down the road a few times, but we made it safe and sound, and so did our saddles.

Sunday morning it was really cold, but at least there was no rain. We froze our “butts” off riding to our boys. Our boys had a good romp in the paddock while we helped muck their stables and once they had got rid of all their energy, we brought them in to give them a groom. We put their day sheets on, to keep them warm. We then rode to town, thinking we would do some shopping, but everything was closed – we forgot it was Sunday and the shops close at 11am – we have to still get used to that. So we rode home in the cold, but after fighting against  the wind we were really hot by the time we got home. We then repeated the ride to our boys in the late afternoon, because we had to put on their winter blankets, so that they were warm for the night. At about 6pm, it started snowing, it was so pretty – maybe we get to ride to our boys in the snow on Monday morning.

Monday morning we woke up to a white wonderland – it was covered in frost – it was so pretty, but cold. The ride to our boys was really pretty, no wind, so I could enjoy every little bit of the white country side. Our boys were happy to see me, and thoroughly enjoyed the groom, and loves and kisses. I miss having them right on my door step. After leaving our boys, I went to town to get a few things, the thermometer at the bank said it was -2 degrees. We are enjoying the cold, and so are our boys.

Tuesday morning was sunny but cold – at least there was no rain. We rode to our boys, and then spent time with them, groomed them and gave them carrots. At lunch time Barbara took us with her to lunch – it was really great. Then she took us to a little tack shop, but unfortunately it was closed, so we will have to try another time. Barbara then took us back to the stables, where we gave our boys a kiss, and we got on our bikes and rode home. When we got back home, we had an email from Anne, saying our luggage was sorted out – thanks Anne. Things are all falling into place – Thank the Lord!

Wednesday morning was very cold, but the skies were clear, I can not say sunny, but no rain. We rode to our boys, and when we got there, Barbara had found a leather Halter that fitted Peri, so now Peri has another halter. It is so amazing to find things that fit my boy. Barbara has been such a help. All the people at Guido Klatte have been fantastic, and the best part is they speak English, so we know what is going on. Then later the repair man came back with the repairs, and Peri’s girth that needed repairing was repaired – Barbara also organised that for us as well. Looks like we are going to have everything in tip top shape when we get to Canada.

Thursday morning it was back to rain – so we got wet riding to our boys. Our boys, the cat – Gangster and the dog – Napo were all happy to see us. Maybe not us so much as the treats we come with. Our boys got good groom, and we sorted out our boys boxes. Then we were spoilt by Barbara, she gave us each a Guido Klatte numnah – and they are so beautiful. We have been really spoilt here in Germany. Our ride home was good, it had stopped raining and was really pleasant.

Friday morning, it looked quite dull outside, and we thought there was going to be rain again, so we got prepared to get wet. Just before we left to our boys, the heavens opened, but not with rain, it was sleet, and in 5 minutes the whole place was white. Kayla and I rode in the sleet, it was so “cool” in more ways than one. By the time we got to our boys, the sleet had stopped, and it started to clear up – not sunshine but no more angry clouds. We spent time with our boys, and gave them a groom, played with them, and gave them carrots, then it was the ride back home. By now the sun was shining, and all evidence of our white wonderland was gone.

Saturday morning it was raining quite a bit, and we got really wet on our trip to our boys. Once at our boys, we gave Peri’s legs his weekly wash, after all we were already wet. It is quite amazing how much warmer it is, when it is overcast. By the time we left our boys we were just getting dry, and as Barbara pointed out, it was time to get wet again. We rode home in the rain, and by the time we got home we were a couple of drowned rats. After changing into dry clothes, the rest of the afternoon was spent patching Bailie’s blanket – just as well he has two, so he can stay warm while I repair his other blanket. Talking about  blankets, it is really sad to see all the lovely blankets and tack here, and not having enough money to buy all the things we want. We have at least managed to get a few things we needed for our boys, and a few spoils.

Sunday morning it was raining again, so our ride to our boys was wet again – you would think we were used to getting wet by now. After grooming our boys, Kayla tried on Bailie’s new German halter – it is the colours of the German flag, then she dressed him in his German “clothing”. Kayla loves the German colours, and Bailie looks so “sexy” in them. We then groomed a little Gypsy Vanner that is on her way to Sydney – I just loved her long mane, and sweet personality – I wanted to keep her J It was then time to go home, in the rain.

Monday morning it was raining – surprise!!!! So we rode in the rain to our boys, and got wet, but not too bad, at least it was raining softly. We groomed our boys really well because we were not going to be there on Tuesday. We asked Barbara to give them their carrots, and she took them out for their play in the lunge ring – thanks Barbara. The people at Guido Klatte have been really fantastic helping us with so much. Once our boys were all nice and shiny, we were on our way home, to get things done at home, and get ready for our journey on Tuesday to Granny Todd (Helga)

Tuesday morning we up way before the sparrows. We got up at 5,30am, got a taxi to Cloppenburg at 6.30am, then it was 4 trains and 1 bus to Radeformwald, to visit Granny Todd (Helga) – my mother-in-law and Kayla’s granny. We got there at 11.45. It was so nice to see Helga again, and after not seeing her for 4 years, I was really surprised how well she looked. We had lunch, played cards, and then walked to Ouma Latske, where we had Waffles and cream – Kayla’s favourite. It was such a lovely visit, and so nice to see the Latske family again, after 17 years – yip!! I saw them the last time when I was pregnant with Kayla – scary how fast time goes. We had to leave at 5.50pm again, and we reversed the process to get home. We got home at 11.20pm – a very long day, but such an enjoyable day. The weather was also great, we even had some sunshine .

Wednesday morning we were back to normal, and so was the weather – raining. We rode to our boys, but it was raining so softly that we did not get too wet. It was the first day of the final quarantine for our boys, to go to Canada. Our boys were moved to new stables, to meet the quarantine requirements. These stables are outside, not in the barn anymore, so we had to get out their blankets, so they can be blanketed at night. We just spent time grooming and playing with our boys. Bailie got his bow right today, he went down on one knee – all for a carrot. Peri is starting to bend his legs, but has a long way to go before he is as good as Bailie – what we get up to, when we spend time with our boys. We also visited Anne at Guido Klatte, and got the best news ever – both Kayla and I are on the flight with our boys, and we can go with the truck to Luxembourg with our boys – thanks Anne. Now it is just the luggage to sort out, and we are set. By the time we left the stables, the rain had stopped and we had a good, dry ride home. The afternoon was spent trying to do emails (I say trying, because it never happened, the internet would not connect) .I really need to find a more reliable internet supplier.

Thursday morning we were off to our boys in the rain and wind again – the wind does just not want to let up – I am going to have huge legs after riding in this wind. We played with our boys and rode them, or should I say play rode them in the lunge ring. There was no serious work at all. Bailie got his bow down to a fine art, and Peri is starting to bend his legs a little more and go down further. It is amazing what you can teach horses when you have carrots and time. We rode back in the rain, but we have figured out if we ride the long way home – it is about 2km further, we have the wind from the back and the ride is easier, so that is what we did – the long way.

Friday morning we saw a lovely sunrise, no rain, just wind. When it was time to go to our boys, we were all ready and the heavens opened. We decided to wait a while, and the rain let up, so we could ride to our boys, without getting wet. The wind was icy and it blew really hard, but we made it. We just groomed and played with our boys. The ride home was also dry, just very windy. The afternoon was spent catching up on emails that had lagged behind because of internet problems.

Saturday morning the sun was shining again, and there was no rain, just a little cold. We rode to our boys, and we did it 10 minites quicker because there was no wind – it was so nice riding in the country side, and being able to look what is around. At the stables Barbara had organised some traveling boots that fitted Peri – wow! That is a first. They were second hand, but who cares – they fitted. We then washed our boys legs, and when they were clean they looked so good again – not for long, then they will roll and be back to square one. Horses will be horses. We then rode back home, and there was very little wind, so it made it a lovely ride home. The afternoon was spent cleaning house and doing laundry.

Sunday morning, we woke up to the world covered in frost – all pretty and white. There was also a lot of fog, the country looked like a fairy land – a very cold one at that! Our ride to our boys was really cold, but at least there was no wind. Our boys looked like dragons with the steam coming out of their noses. We groomed and oiled our boys feet, and just spent some time with them, before making the cold ride home. We now only have 30 days before we get to Canada and get re-united with our human boys – Klaus and Michael. and little Rascal.

Monday was a very busy day for us humans in Germany. We went to our horses in the morning as usual, and Bailie’s under blanket (his Christmas present) had arrived, so we to try that on, and it fitted him like a glove. Kayla wanted German colours for him, so that is what he got. Then we were moved to our new house, which is really lovely. After all the luggage was moved, we were dropped off at the B&B to collect Kayla’s bicycle. It had a puncture, so we went to the garage to pump it, only to find out that it was not going to work. We got directions to a bicycle shop, and had the tyre repaired, now it was a get to the stables, to fetch my bike. So Kayla rode her bike, and I had to walk. When we got to the stables we groomed our boys, and then were on our way to our new home – or so I thought. It was now my turn, my Bicycle had a puncture. We managed to pump it enough to ride home, which is 4km from the stables, and it was then flat again. Kayla and I then decided to fix it, and once the tube was out we realized it was beyond repair, so Kayla rode to the shop and bought another one. The problem is that the tube had a French valve, and the pump did not fit, so back Kayla went to look for a pump, but came home empty handed, she could not communicate with the shop keeper, so off I went with Kayla, and we got an adapter for our pump. After about half an hour we could not get the tire pumped, and realized the pump we had was faulty, so we would just have to wait for morning to pump the wheel.

On Tuesday morning we were up early, and Kayla went to the shop to get a pump, and at last we managed to get my bicycles tyre pumped – at last. We saw the most amazing sunrise from my bedroom window. Then we rode to the stables, with a wind from the front, and rain, it took forever – at one stage we had to walk because the wind nearly blew us backwards.When we got to the stables, they had already loaded our horses, so that they can move to the quarantine stables, so our bikes were loaded up, and we hopped in the front of the truck and away we went. The stables are really 5 star, and our boys settled in quite well, they got to play in the lunge ring, which will be theirs to play in while it is raining. All the paddocks are swimming pools after all the rain. We then had to go shopping for some groceries, but we can only buy enough to go on our bikes, so not too much was bought. We then rode back home, and the wind was from the back now, so the ride home was not too bad. We now have to ride +- 8km each way too and from the stables – damn it is far, I hope we are going to get fit.

Wednesday morning was a beautiful morning, no rain, no wind and sunshine. We went to our boys, and the ride there was so enjoyable, we stopped on the way to get carrots – at the quarantine station, they don’t get carrots – poor boys. By the time we got to the stables our boys were already out in the lunge ring, or should I say in, in the lunge ring? They had both had a good roll, and were covered in mud. We took our boys out to the paddock, to let them graze, but we had to keep them on leads, so that they don’t run around and tear up the grass. Our boys thoroughly enjoyed the grass, they have not had such nice green grass for a long time. Unfortunately the wind came up again and we got cold, so after half an hour we went back in. Then it was time to get our boys clean, and what a job that was. On our way home, my bicycle got another puncture – man what a pain, so I walked home again.

T

Thursday morning we started our great walk, pushing bikes. It was about 10km’s, to the bicycle shop, and the wind blew all the way, it took about 2 hours to get to the stables. Our boys were so glad to see us, because we were an hour late, they probably thought we were not coming to see them. After grooming and playing with our boys, we had to go back to the bicycle shop to collect our bikes, but there was a storm, so Barbara the stable manager took us to the shop. We then bought a few groceries, and headed home, on our fixed bike.. The rain had stopped, but the wind was still blowing. When we went over the bridge, we were both blown off our bikes, and had to push them over, then we managed to ride again, but every time we came to a field with no shelter, the wind would blow us off the path, it was quite a funny ride, people must have thought we were drunk, riding all over the show. We eventually arrived home, safe and sound.

Friday morning, and would you believe it, Kayla’s bike had a flat wheel. So we managed to pump it to get us a little way, and then we had to pump it again, so after 3 more tire pumps we made it to the bike man, and he fixed it for us – it looks like he pinched the tube when he put on the new tyre on Thursday. Once the tyre was fixed we were off to the stables, and when we were nearly there we remembered we had forgotten to buy carrots and treats, so we made a U-turn and off to the shops we went. Eventually we made it to our boys, who were already in the lunge ring. We brought them in, groomed them and then we rode them in the lunge ring, just a walk and a little trot, they have been out of work for so long, we will have to be careful what we do, until they are fit again. We enjoyed playing around with them as well. We then gave them a good groom and we also gave them their carrots. While we were there, three Ardenner Draft horses were brought in, they are on their way to China. Man!!! are they broad, they are about Peri’s height, but about double as wide – they are gorgeous. They are apparently on their way to China as working horses. Then it was the ride home, it was raining and the wind was blowing – I have to tell you that rain hits very hard when it is pushed by wind. We got home looking like drowned rats, but a warm shower and a good change of clothes, and we were all warm and dry again.

Saturday morning it was raining – surprise!!!! We waited for the rain to ease off a little before we rode to our horses – and yes!!!! No flat wheels J. Once we were there, we gave Peri’s legs a good wash, and just spent some time with our boys. Kayla is trying to teach Bailie to bow on one knee, and he is slowly getting it right. Peri is starting to bend his knees for his bow, but he is still not quite sure that he should be doing these strange things. After grooming our boys, it was time to head back home. We went into town to get a few things, carrots and treats for the boys was also on the list. Once we were finished at the shops, our bikes were fully loaded, and we were on our way – and surprise down came the rain and the wind started – what a ride home that was. Why is it that the wind is always from the front? When we got home we were both drenched and frozen, but nothing, a warm shower could not sort out.

Sunday morning the heavens were really open, and the rain was belting down, so we took our time getting ready, and we sat and hovered for about half an hour, then the rain stopped and we were on our way, as fast as possible, there was no way we wanted to get wet on the way to the horses, there is no warm shower there. We made it!!! – dry and in record time. We just pampered our boys, not that they needed it, but we had to just do it anyway. Bailie got his feet oiled, and Peri got a good groom and massage. Once we were finished we rode home, and yes!!!! We got there dry, we had beat the rain again – yippee!!!! We spent the afternoon washing grooming bags, grooming kits and girths, and then settled in to watch a few DVD’s. We are now ready for another week in Germany.

Monday morning we went to the stables, it was raining and miserable, but Kayla and I and our boys are enjoying the cooler weather. We let our boys out in the muddy paddock, and they had a ball. Both of them rolled, so when we brought them in they had to be hosed off – at least the water was warm, then we put on their day sheets to keep them warm until they dried. While we were at the stables the one groom showed us the little Zebra’s that had come in to also start quarantine to be moved to Indonesia – they were so sweet. We then went back to the B&B to pack, because we were going to go to Sweden on Tuesday to visit my Mom and sister. In the afternoon we went to our boys again, to make sure they were warm and dry – they were, so we blanketed them for the night, and gave them a big kiss goodbye. I had to explain to Peri what was happening, so that he would behave while we were gone.

Tuesday morning we were up really early to catch a bus to the train station, and then a train to Bremen station, then a tram to Bremen Airport, then a plane to Amsterdam, then another plane to Copenhagen, where we got picked up by Mom and Lindy. We then had to go on a ferry from Denmark to Sweden. I guess we have now travelled on all modes of transport in one day. It was so nice to see Mom and Lindy again. Lindy cooked a great dinner, and we were off to bed.

Wednesday morning we were awake early – I thought we would have slept in a little, but no such luck, I guess we are just missing our boys. We just relaxed and went to the local shopping mall. In the evening we went to some of Linda’s friends, for a traditional Swedish dinner, which was really nice, but we ate way too much!. Thursday and Friday we spent the days just relaxing, and playing games with my Mom and sister. We also had one night with no wind, where we could let a lantern fly, with Linda, Ole and Mom. It was really nice to just chill and enjoy the company of our family. This is the first time in 5 months that we have not been with Peri and Bailie every day, and it really was strange.

Saturday morning we left at 12.30 to catch a train at 1.00am. We caught the train, just to find out we caught it in the wrong direction, so we had to get off at the next stop, so Linda could fetch us, and then there were no other trains to get us to the airport on time, so Linda had to take us. We went on the ferry again, and Kayla and I braved the cold icy weather and went out on deck to see the lovely lights, which were really beautiful. Once at the airport, we reversed the whole process we did on Tuesday, plane, tram, train and bus, then we were back at the B&B. The plan was to stay up to see the New year in, but that never happened, we both fell asleep and woke up a year later.

Happy New Year

Sunday morning – New years day, after breakfast I went to see our boys, was Peri glad to see me. Needless to say, he got lots of spoils and treats, a good wash, lots of grass and bunch of carrots. I then groomed Bailie, and gave him treats and carrots. Kayla had stomach ache, so she stayed in bed for the day. The rest of the day was spent just loafing around, we also did some packing, because we are moving to a flat for the rest of our stay in Germany. We are now in 2012, and this year we will be getting to Canada at last, where we will be together with our human boys – Klaus and Michael, which we have missed so very much.

Monday morning we woke up to a great surprise, it had snowed during the night. It looked so pretty, and we were really looking forward to introducing our boys to the snow. When we rode our bikes to the stables on the ice on the roads, it made really funny clicking sounds. Once at the stables, we tacked up our boys and went for a ride in the snow. Bailie was totally freaked out about this white stuff on the ground, so he spent the whole ride hopping around. Peri just took it all in his stride, and even nibbled on some grass on the side of the pathway. The funniest thing Peri did was talk to the Peri in the window – it was so funny, we had to ride past the windows to the indoor arena, and Peri saw his reflection, did he get excited – He neighed, and pranced around to “chaff” the horse in the window – He was so cute.

Tuesday morning there was even more snow, it had snowed all night. We went to the stables, but could not ride as the snow was very icy, and it became very slippery. We let our boys have a romp in the indoor lunge ring, then we gave them a really good groom, put back their blankets and let them chill in their stables, for the rest of the day. We also got to see Klatte’s truck, up close and personal – man it is stunning!!!!

Wednesday morning it was raining and all the snow had melted. We went to the stables, and by the time we got there the sun was shinning, and it was a lovely day. I gave Peri a manacure (rounded off all the chips on his feet, and oiled them really well). We then let our boys have a romp in the lunge ring, before letting them go and have lunch. Kaylaand I caught a bus and went to see the town of Cloppenburg.

Thursday morning it was raining again, so we took our time going to our boys, we were hoping it would clear up – no such luck, it just carried on drizzeling. I gave Bailie his manicure, and after that we let our boys out in a paddock, which was grass once, but now is mud, and they had an absolute blast. They ran up and down like hooligans. After they had played for a while, it was time to bring them in and get them cleaned up. We hosed off their legs, and under carraiges, but groomed the rest clean, we did not want them to catch cold. While we were grooming our boys, Mickey the cat got even more brave, and jumped onto Bailie’s back. The staff at the stables told us that he usually sits on Peri’s back all afternoon – so now our boys have their own quarantine cat. While we were at the stables, a huge truck came in, and off loaded carrots, they had to use a pallet jack to get them all off the truck – I have never seen so many carrots in one place. The horses are really spoilt here. Once we were finished at the stables we decided to go and visit the local tack shop – yip!!! we rode our bikes 10km each way, in the drizzle to go and see what we could get our boys for Christmas. Going there was easy, it was mostly down hill, but coming home was mostly up hill, and man did we feel the burn. Once back at the B&B we were quite happy to just chill – we were both “pooped”.

Friday morning we were off to the stables to check if the blanket I had bought Peri would fit him, and it did, he now has a lovely duvet blanket, with a fluffy under blanket. We have ordered one for Bailie, and hopefully we can go and pick it up next week some time, we just got to find a day when the tack shop is open between all the holidays. After Peri’s fitting session, we let our boys run in the muddy paddock, and then we had to give them a good groom. While I was oiling Peri’s feet, the cat Mikey decided to come and check that I was doing a good job, he just climbed up my back onto my shoulder and then climbed down my front to check the hoof – he is such a cute cat.

Saturday we went to see our boys, and then we went to get a few groceries before all the shops closed for the Christmas weekend. When we got back there was a parcel for us. The parcel was from Roz, our dear friend in Ireland, what a surprise, our one and only Christmas present, Kayla and I were like little kids opening it. In the evening we were invited to dinner by the owners of the B&B we are staying at, and it was really a lovely evening, they are such nice people.

Sunday morning and Christmas day – the weather was miserable, so we went to our boys, we mucked their stables – the grooms do not muck stables on Christmas Day, gave our boys a good groom, lots of grass and treats. When we were finished at the stables we went back to the B&B, and watch DVD’s until about 3pm, when we went back to our boys to blanket them and say goodnight. Peri got to wear his new blanket. It gets dark between 4 and 4.30pm, so we like to be back by then. Otherwise we had a quiet relaxing day, we missed our family and friends though .

Sunday morning we were up early, to get the last few things packed. After the horses had eaten, we met Nalanie on the beach for our last swim with our boys, in Mauritius. It unfortunately was low tide, but we still had a great time. At 10.30am our boys went in for lunch, and we went with Nalanie and her family to the Spur in Grande Baie for lunch – what a lovely time we all had. Then at 2pm, our boys went out for the last time in Mauritius. At 4pm all the horses were washed and fed, and were ready to leave.

Then we got the news that the flight from SA had not landed yet, so our flight would be delayed until 8pm. It was then delayed to 10pm, then 12pm and eventually at 4am on Monday morning (12th December) we left for the airport. When we arrived at the airport, there were further delays, and at about 8am, the horses were still in the trucks, and it was getting really hot. The horses were starting to get restless, so we called the quarantine station to get buckets and lead reins, so we could get the horses off the trucks – for some reason in Mauritius they do not let horses travel with lead reins. While we were waiting, we heard “Mallie” starting to cause problems in the truck, and we were on our way to go and check on the horses, when there was a huge commotion. Kayla, Oliver and I ran to the truck, just to find that “Mallie” had mounted the divider between him and Zahir. I had the camera with me, as I was taking pictures of the trucks etc, so I took a picture. Now we had a problem, we had to get 4 horses out of the truck before we could get “Mallie” out, and we had no lead reigns. Thank the Lord we had our horses boxes in the bakkie with us, so we ripped them open and grabbed 5 leads. In Mauritius the truck drivers will not handle the horses, and will not get involved with the horses, so it was Kayla, Oliver and I. We got out the first 4 horses, poor things were run down the ramp of the truck, and just handed to anybody we could find, and by now “Mallie” had fallen down, but his leg was still stuck on the top of the divider. The only way now was to loosen him and get the divider open, and hope he manages to get up. We managed to unclip him from the truck – yes, can you believe it, he did all this while chained to the truck, and then after much pulling and kicking Oliver and I managed to get the divider open – please remember his weight was still on it, as he was hanging from his leg. Then there was a miracle! his leg came unstuck as the divider opened, he fell to the floor, and then got up. I managed to grab the lead that we had attached to him when we un-clipped him, and he walked out the truck. Amazingly he was OK, he had a few scrapes and bruises, and he had pulled a shoe, but he could walk – I have never ever seen that before. I was so happy that he was OK. We then took out all the horses from the bottom level of the truck, including our boys. While we were waiting for the leads and water, we stood on a piece of ground next to the runway, where they were installing drainage pipes., and man was it hot. Eventually the leads and water arrived, but we did not have enough handlers to hold the horses. We had now involved quite a few of the locals, and they became horse holders. We phoned Lindy, and she arrived with some friends, and we now managed to give the horses water, and walk them around. Lindy brought some Chaff, so all the horses were given chaff and water – thanks Lindy for the help. We now could get “Mallie” hosed off and treat his wounds – thank goodness our boxes were there. So we could use the purple spray, and Oliver had some bandages in his bakkie that we used to bandage “Mallies” legs.

By now it was midday, and we were standing in the cooking sun, and man!!!! Was it hot!!! Parts of the tar on the road had even started melting. We got so sunburned. We then made a trade off with the Cargo guys at air Mauritius, I let then take pictures of our boys, and we got to hose off our horses. Eventually at 12.30 we could re-load the horses, and go to the plane. At the security check, we all had to go and get permits, so the poor horses had to wait in the hot trucks again for another 15 minutes. When we got back to the trucks, we were commenting on how quiet it was, when suddenly all hell broke loose. Anand the stable manger from the quarantine station, who had now joined us, and I climbed up the back of the truck to find that “Luni” had caught his foot in his chain. So the two of us ran across the dividers between the horses, and I managed to un-clip him. We then just stayed there to calm down “Luni” and to prevent him from pawing. Every time he pawed, he would hit Peri”s legs – thank goodness we had put travelling boots on our boys.

At last we got to the plane – Kayla and I had to do the formalities at customs, and eventually we got back to the plane, to help with the loading. The horses were put into a box with 3 stalls, hoisted up, and then led into the plane. The stalls on the plane were built as the horses came in to their requirements. Bailie was having none of this, getting on a plane stuff, as he had to load alone – he is too heavy, so we had to literally pick him up at the back and push him in. He was put in a double stall, and then Peri was loaded, and he was put just in front of Bailie. Old man (Arusha) and ” Mallie” were left in the portable stall, and were put right by the cargo door – so when we stopped anywhere they got the best view. At 3pm all horses were loaded, and ready to go, but the Mauritian authorities were still busy with their formalities. We had to wait in that hot plane until 7pm, before we were allowed to take off – the poor horses were frying in the plane.

At 7pm Monday the 12th December, we took off at last. Kayla and I got to sit in the cockpit for landing and taking off, which was really cool! We then flew to Mombasa airport in Kenya where we had to land for a fuel refill, which took about an hour. Because of AHS, we could not open the cargo doors, so we got the temperature in the plane really cold before landing, so that the horses did not get hot again. Then we flew to Cairo airport in Egypt, where we refuelled, changed crew, and got some more water for the horses. Here the cargo door was opened, so some air could get into the plane. After about an hour on the ground, we flew to Oostende in Belgium. The flight was about 16 hours in total.

On arrival, the cargo doors were opened, and the horses got their first breath of cool air. Arusha and “Mallie” were the first to be off loaded, in their crate, and Kayla and I went on the pallet with them. At the stables the vets and trucks were waiting for us, so we off loaded the two off the pallet and into stables, where the vets checked them out, gave them some electrolytes, grass and water before they were loaded onto the next trucks – which I must add were absolutely stunning. While we were busy doing this, the hoist was taken away and a ramp was brought in, to walk the horses off the plane. We got back to the plane and it was now time to off load the other horses. First was Peri, then Bailie, and we then walked them across the tarmac to the stables. They were all really good. After the vet had seen them, and they had their electrolytes, they were put into their 5 star trucks. Our boys were given double spaces.

By the time we had finished everything and could leave the airport it was already 1pm local time, Tuesday the 13th December, so we could not catch a train to Germany, so we found a hotel at the station and got some sleep – Man!!! I did not realise that I had so many muscles in my body.

We also got a call from Klaus to say that he had little Rascal, and he was safe and sound – isn’t technology great.

On Wednesday we were up early, had some breakfast at the hotel and were off to the trains. We left Belgium at 7.45am, and got to Lastrup at 5pm. We went straight to see our boys, and they looked great. They were kept in because it had rained the whole day, but they got lots of grass, and were blanketed – what else could a horse want. We now got to check out our “stables” – the B&B, and it was really a cute little place. Kayla and I have quite a bit of jet lag, it felt like we were swimming all the time, so we went straight to bed.

On Thursday we got up, had some breakfast, and were off to see our boys. It is about a 4km walk, but very flat, and in the cold it is really easy. We had our doubts as where we were going, as we were driven there by Anne of Guido Klatte in the dark, but we found it no problem. Our boys were glad to see us. We were then shown around the stable yard, and Wow!!! Is all I can say. We were given our own area to groom our horses – they don’t do it in the stable like we are used to doing, there is an indoor area to wash horses with warm water, there is an indoor horse walker, and an indoor arena. This is really 5 star, not what we are used to. So our boys went for a 10 minute walk in the walker, it was so funny to watch them get the whole thing right. Bailie kept on waiting for the dividing mats to touch him, before leaping off to the one in front, then he decided that he should try and get past it, so he could be with Peri. At least in the end our boys did get it right, and were able to at least stretch some of their muscles after just standing for 4 days, in trucks, on planes and in stables. We then gave our boys a good groom and then their blankets went back on. Once finished at the stables, Anne was kind enough to take us around town, to show us where everything is. We then did a little shopping, and got sim cards for the internet and phones, but all the instructions are in German, so we had to go to Anne for help on Friday.

Friday we went to Anne at Guido Klatte, she helped us get the sim cards registered, print some paperwork that needed to be signed. We were there for quite some time. Once we were done by Anne we went shopping for some groceries and we each got a good pair of boots, because we walk everywhere and it was raining and snowing. We were quite surprised that in the one shop – something like builders, they even had horse stuff, so we managed to get some grooming brushes, and some treats for our boys.

Saturday morning we were up early, and after breakfast we went to our boys. They were so glad to see us. We gave them a quick groom, and then waited for the horses to finish in the walker, so that we could put them in the lunge ring in the middle to play – and did they play – they loved it. Peri also befriended the local cat, who walked on him. After they played we took Peri to the wash bay, and washed his legs – with warm water mind you. Both our boys then got a good groom. By then it was lunch time, and the horses got a handful of carrots – they are really spoilt, they get muesli for breakfast and dinner, carrots for lunch and lots of grass. The people at Guido Klatte are really so nice and friendly, and today they lent Kayla and I bicycles, so now we have transport.

Sunday we went to our boys on our new transport – the bicycles, and it was really nice. The weather was great, sunshine and not too much wind. Our boys went in the lunge ring to play again, and did they play. After they were finished playing, we gave our boys a good groom. Peri’s new friend – the cat, did get in the way though. At lunch time we went back to the B&B and sorted out a few things. It gets dark really early at 4.30pm, so at 6pm it already feels very late, and this is what is taking some getting used to.