Monday was spent cleaning, and tiding up the house, and packing the last of our bags – We are really getting excited now. We going to miss our boys, but we are really looking forward to seeing our family.

Tuesday morning we were up early, and at 7.30am, we were picked up and taken to the quarantine station. We help load the 14 horses that we were flying with from Amsterdam to New York. Once the horses were all loaded, we had a 4 hour drive to Amsterdam. Thanks to Guido for allowing us to travel with the truck and for giving us tickets to fly as grooms. Guido and his team are the most helpful and kind people we have met on our trip – Thank Guido!  Once we arrived at the airport, we help load the horses into the travel containers, ready for the plane. Once they were all ready to fly, we went to check in at the main airport building. At last the horses were loaded, and the passengers were on, and it was time to take off. There were 5 grooms, Kayla and I were 2 of the 5, and we had to stand with the horses in the cargo hold when we took off and landed – that was really fun. The staff on the KLM flight were really wonderful, and we had a great flight. Once we landed in New York, we said good bye to the horses, and we got off the plane with the rest of the passengers. We were now in New York – on our way home.

Wednesday we spent the day taking in the sights of New York. It was really sad, that it was raining and we could not see all the sights clearly, but we still got to do quite a bit. We went to Rockefeller Square, where we saw a huge Lego shop. Then we went to Time Square, and there we saw a huge M & M shop, there were 3 floors of M&M’s and M & M merchandise – what a lot of chocolate. There was a huge Disney toy shop – the atmosphere was fantastic. We also went to see the statue of Liberty, but unfortunately because of the rain, we could not get any nice pictures. What an interesting day – at the end of it we were exhausted, so it was back to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.

Thursday morning we were up bright and early to get to the airport to catch our flight to Canada. We landed in Canada at lunch time, and Wow!!!! It was raining – we just can’t get away from rain! It was so wonderful to see Klaus and Michael again, and the drive to our new home was great – there was a lot of catching up to do.

The rest of the weekend was just spent getting settled in, and getting to know the neighbourhood. I got to see our new little foal – Fred. He is so cute. One of the mares in the field decided that she needed a scratch and came up to Klaus with her rear end, and when he walked away, she followed him in reverse – it was so funny to watch. All in all it was a good week, just miss our boys so much, now we are home, and our boys are not with us

Monday morning the weather was absolutely lovely – T-shirt weather. Once we got to our boys, they were happy to go out in the paddock and have a good roll and run. While they were having fun in the paddock, we packed up all their goodies for the move. Once everything was packed up, we brought our boys in and got them cleaned up and ready for their move. At 1.30pm it was time to go. Guido was kind enough to move our boys in his lovely big truck – first class travel for our boys. Once we got to the new stables, our boys were off loaded and put into their new stables. Both boys can look out the back door into the field, and they have lots of sunshine coming into their stables. Peri was quite happy to say hello to the yearlings next door to him – he just loves the babies. Bailie has a mare with a foal next to him, and she was not very happy meeting Bailie, but I am sure she will get used to him. We hung around by our boys for a while, with no rush from Guido – some people are so fantastic. Eventually it was time to say good bye to our boys – it was really sad, but at least we get to see them on Saturday before we leave. I think our boys will be happy in their new temporary home, they have each other, big stables, grass and from Tuesday they will be able to go out into the field. I am going to miss them so so much.

The rest of the week was spent getting things sorted out for our boys, to get their boxes to Canada. We really missing not seeing them every day and we are looking forward to seeing them on Saturday. On Thursday and Friday we helped at the quarantine station, grooming two Frisians, and on Friday we took them out to the paddock for a walk and grass. The crying has subsided, as we prepare to leave Germany, and get to our family in Canada, we are really missing them a lot now, as we saw them 9 months ago last. We really going to miss our boys though, but thanks to Christina, and Michael, they will be happy. On Friday morning I got an email from Greg in Canada, telling me that Josephine had foaled, and she has a healthy little colt. I can’t wait to see the little guy.

Saturday Christina came to pick us up to see our boys – thanks Christina!. Our boys were out in the field, and they were so happy munching on all the green grass. They both had just had their legs washed and looked so smart. Peri loves saying hi! to the little ponies in the paddock next to his. We really miss our boys, but they are in good hands and will be happy, which makes parting so much easier. After spending a couple of hours with our boys it was time to leave, and Christina was kind enough to drive us.

Sunday was spent doing laundry and getting things packed and ready to leave. We just thank the Lord, that our boys have somewhere lovely to stay, and that we are going to see our family again. This trip has been really trying, but the Lord has brought us through it, and He will be there for the final steps as well.

Monday morning, it was overcast again, but it was not a problem. I went to our boys, gave them some grass and water, and then I was off to a meeting with Guido and Bernd from Guido Klatte. Once again our boys’ results were positive, so we had to now make a few decisions. Guido and Bernd came up with a few good suggestions, and we will be checking them out this week. The best suggestion is that our boys stay at one of the ladies that work for him, and we can visit anytime we want. I am still praying that by the end of the year their results will be negative, and then we can fetch them. It is really hard to even think that it has come to this, but what can we do, accept the best in a bad situation. We prayed for a miracle, and I hope this is our miracle. Guido and his team have been absolutely wonderful through all this. In the afternoon we went to our boys to muck their stables and let them have their romp in the paddock – they thought we were crazy doing everything back to front today. Peri banged the door of his stable, because he was confused, and frustrated, because the carrots were not there at the right time – my spoilt boy is so demanding Once everything was done, we tucked them in to bed for the night – then the sun came out – Wow!!! This weather is strange here.

Tuesday and Wednesday were really miserable days again. Our boys still had a good romp in the paddock, both of them getting really filthy. Peri has been a little depressed, but I am sure once everything is sorted out he will be a lot happier. Unfortunately Peri always picks up on my moods, and I have been down and confused, but I have realised I have to hand it over to the Lord, and just let Him take control of the situation.

Thursday morning I went to our boys with a relaxed and calm mind, and Peri picked up on it, and he is much happier. Once our boys had, had their romp in the paddock, and their stables were cleaned, we took them for a walk to nibble on some grass on the side of the sand road – they loved it. At 11am I went to meet Christina, and her brother Michael, and they have agreed to look after our boys for us, until we can have them re-tested at the end of the year. What lovely people – prepared to help total a total stranger. The Lord has come through for us again; he has sent us fantastic people to help us. Our boys get to stay together, they will even share a stable – they will be so happy.  The afternoon cycle to the boys was really hard – the wind was blowing really hard, but I made it, and they were happy to see me. I know our boys are going to be fine, I know they will be looked after, I know this is all the Lords plan, but why is my heart still so sore, and why do the tears just keep flowing. I also know I am going to miss the boys so so much.

Friday was an emotional day again, our boys were not very happy, and we were also down. I guess we have to get used to all the changes, and we have to accept the decisions we had to make. We know that the Lord has a plan, but it is hard to get through sometimes, but we have strength through Christ who strengthens us. We took our boys to eat grass again, and they thoroughly enjoyed it – they love being out. The wind was quite vicious again, so the cycle to and from the boys was quite a challenge to say the least. Once I had tucked our boys in for the night, and got back in doors, Kayla and I watched some old DVD’s (when her and Michael were babies) and it helped cheer us up.

Saturday morning it was really miserable, and raining. Once we got to our boys, it had stopped raining, and we went to let our boys out – the paddock had been fixed, so they now could have a run, and man did they run. Both boys were so happy, they ran up and down like absolute hooligans. I love seeing them happy. Needless to say it took forever to muck their stables, because we were too busy enjoying watching our boys playing. Once we had finished the stables, and got everything ready for our boys, it was time for them to come back in. Needless to say, Bailie just never knows when to stop, and once he got out the paddock, the little rubbish ran away, all over the lawns, but at least he came back to Peri. Once our boys were back in their stables, it took quite a while to get them clean again – both boys had a few good rolls in the mud. I must say that seeing our boys happily running around, really made me feel so much better. The afternoon was really nice and warm, in fact our boys were hot in their stables, so no more blankets

Sunday morning was overcast, but by the time we got to our boys the sun was shining and it was already nice and warm, almost hot. Our boys had a good romp in the paddock, while we mucked their stables. We then washed both boys legs, they both needed it, and it was so nice and warm that they enjoyed the pampering. I also washed their blankets, so they have clean things when they go to their new home, tomorrow. Besides the wind Sunday was a lovely day.

Monday morning, and the sun was shining, it was so pretty. Our boys were able to play in the paddock, and streak. The two of them absolutely love chewing each other; it is so sweet to watch. The vet came today to take bloods, so we can move on. We and all our friends and family have been praying really hard for a negative result. We are trusting and believing that the results will be negative, so we can carry on, on our God given adventure to Canada. Once our boys were back in their stables for the day, we cycled home. Then it started to get windy and miserable. The afternoon cycle was also windy and miserable, but then at 7.30pm, the sun came back out, and it only went down well after 9pm. It is taking some getting used to, these strange daylight hours, I wonder what our boys are thinking, when we put them to bed when it is still light.

Tuesday morning, the sun was up again , but the wind was blowing quite hard, so our cycle to the boys was hectic, but at least the cycle back would be easy. After cleaning their stables and putting them back in for the day, we were off to town to get a few groceries. The cycle back was a lot easier, because the wind was more or less from the back. The afternoon cycle to our boys was again quite hectic, but worth it – I love going to cuddle with Peri and Bailie. After tucking our boys in for the night, it was time to cycle back – with the wind from behind, what a pleasure.

Wednesday was a lovely sunny morning, and the wind was not too bad for our cycle to the boys. Our boys were so happy to see us, and we them. There was a horse in their paddock, so we asked if we could put our boys in the grass paddock – there is a lot of construction in the paddock, so they don’t really want horses in there, but they agreed we could let our boys stay there while we mucked their stables. Both boys were so happy to see green grass again, and got straight down to some serious grazing – just as well they could not stay too long, we don’t need any laminitis from the green grass. It was so sweet to watch Bailie grazing, then when he realized he was too far away from Peri, he  would go storming back – they are so cute these boys of ours. When it was time to come back in, Peri was having none of this and would not let us catch him, but once Bailie started to leave the paddock Peri came running to us, he was not having us take his friend. Once they were back in their stables, both boys just stood resting, I think they both had enough to eat, and were ready to nap. When I got to our boys in the afternoon, they had hardly eaten any of their grass – I guess they wanted more green grass. I topped up the little they had eaten in their hay nets, gave them more water, and tucked them in for the night.

Thursday and Friday were a bit of a blur. Our boys were happy to romp in the sunshine in their paddock while we mucked their stables. On Thursday we got the news that the blood tests were positive, and that our boys could not go to Canada. This was such heart breaking news, and believe me the tears flowed a lot. After everything we have been through, to come to this. I got so many wonderful emails, and phone calls from friends and family, that I really felt loved, and they gave me strength. In between all the tears, emails and phone calls, I have realised that God has a plan, I am not sure what that plan is, but He has a plan for our lives, and our boys lives. By Friday afternoon I had started to feel a little better, not crying so much any more, and I decided that I would have to just leave it all in the Lord’s hands, He knows best. We have a meeting on Monday to see what we can do for our boys, and we are trusting the Lord for his guidance.

Saturday and Sunday were both quite overcast, and it rained on and off. Our boys enjoyed frolicking in the muddy paddock, they love getting dirty, maybe that is a ploy to get us to spend more time grooming them The rest of the weekend was spent praying for a miracle in our lives, that we can get our boys to Canada.

Monday morning it was raining. So the cycle to our boys was wet and windy. Our boys went out in the rain, but they had their waterproof blankets on, and man! do they work well. When our boys came in, their heads and necks were wet, but the rest of them were dry. Both boys had had a good roll in the paddock, so their blankets were wet and muddy, it was really interesting getting them cleaned off, but we did eventually get it done. After giving them a good groom – to get rid of any itches, we put dry blankets on again. It rained the whole day, so the cycle in the afternoon was also wet. I was glad once the boys were tucked up in their stables for the night, and we were tucked up in the house for the night, and all of us were warm.

Tuesday morning it was still raining, and the wind was blowing like crazy. Our boys enjoyed their romp in the paddock, even though they were still clothed. Once we had finished up with their stables we brought them in, gave them a good groom and changed their blankets, they were ready to cuddle up for the day. While our boys were cuddling, they were full of shavings to prove it, we cycled to town to get some groceries, it was really wet, but at least it was not too cold. The cycle home was great, the wind we fought all the way into town, was now behind us, and pushed us home, and the rain had let up a little, so all in all it was a really easy cycle. The afternoon cycle was dry, but the wind going to our boys was still really strong. After sorting out our boys, and putting on their pyjamas, it was back home again, with the help of wind. Instead of taking 20 mins to cycle back it took 10 mins because of the winds help. The thing I have missed the most here in Germany is not being able to just watch our horses play all day. When we were back in SA, the horses were out in their paddocks all day, and they would play and we could just watch them from the window, or from the pool or back lawn, appreciating God’s wonderful creatures. I miss having the horses right there with us.

Wednesday was overcast, but no rain. The wind also was not blowing very hard, so the cycle to our boys was not bad. Our boys had a good romp out in the paddock, in their clothes – it was a little too cool to let them streak today. Both boys had fun, playing and pushing each other around. Once back in their stables they both got stuck into their grass. The afternoon cycle to our boys was also quite pleasant; the sun even stuck its head out for a while. Once I had tucked the boys up, and made sure they have all they need for the night, I was on my way back home. Once I got back the heavens opened, so at least I got to watch through a window without getting wet the sun then stuck its head out while it was raining – so beautiful.

Thursday was quite interesting, it was pouring with rain, so the trip to the horses was wet – really wet. Our boys went out in the paddock with their blankets, which are really waterproof. Shame they looked like drowned rats by the time we had finished their stables, but once the blankets were off, they were dry again. Once we had dried up our boys and they were all comfortable for the day, we went off to town in the rain – Lindy was arriving today, and we had to get some groceries – got to at least feed her J On the way back from town it was really wet, but at least the wind was from behind, so the cycle was quite quick. Once back home, we got all dried and warmed up, and all was forgotten. By the afternoon the rain had mostly let up, just a little drizzele, so there was no getting wet. Once I got our boys ready for the evening I cycled home, with some dark clouds around. Well they waited for me to get home before opening again – Praise the Lord! Lindy arrived just after 7pm, and the rain had just let up again – how cool is that! We had a wonderful dinner together and then her and Ole went to sleep in their mobile home – their first night in their new home away from home.

Friday morning was misty and cool, so after breakfast we headed off to our boys – this time in the mobile home – Wow!!!! No bicycles. Once at our boys we introduced Peri and Bailie to Lindy and Ole, got some good pictures, and our boys went out to play. We did the stables really quickly, gave our boys a really quick brush down, got them all tucked up for the day and then we were off to town. We showed Lindy and Ole the town, and took them to lunch at the little hamburger joint – Nasch. We showed them around a little more, then we headed home. By now the sun was shining again. At about 3pm, lindy and Ole left for the rest of their journey. I was sad to see them go, but we had a really good time. It was then time to cycle to our boys for the afternoon, and off I went, needless to say, the clouds started coming over and it looked really dark, but I made to to the boys and back before the rain . All in all we had a wonderful day.

Saturday morning was misty again, but once we got to our boys, the sun was out, so we let our boys streak in the paddock. The two of them ran around like hooligans, and both rolled in the lovely mud. Cleaning their stables was quite a story, because of taking a shortcut on Friday – note to self: never take shortcuts. While we were cleaning and getting our boys stables ready we watched them playing in the paddock, they have so much fun, it is just so wonderful to watch. Once we were done with the stables, we brought in our boys, and had to clean them – Wow!!!!! They can make a mess when there is a bit of mud. After about half an hour of grooming, our boys were clean again, and ready to just relax in their stables. The sun was still shining on our cycle home, which makes it so pleasant, even if the wind is blowing. The rest of the day was spent sewing up Peri’s blanket – for some reason all the stitching is coming loose, and doing laundry. By the time I had to go to our boys in the afternoon, it was overcast again, but at least it did not rain, so I stayed dry. After tucking the boys up for the evening it was time to go home.

Sunday was wet, rainy and miserable. We cycled to our boys, they played in the rain, with their raincoats on. Once our boys were back inside after playing out, they were tucked in for the day. The cycle home was really hard with all the wind. The afternoon cycle was pretty much the same as the morning ride, although there was no rain. After tucking the boys in for the night, we got tucked up at home. Then at 7pm, the sun came out, and stayed out until 8.30pm, that is just so strange. At about 9pm it eventually got dark.

We are now ready for another week in Germany – Praise the Lord!.

Monday morning was chilly and dull – summer seems to have left us temporarily. I got lots of encouragement from friends and family, and that made the day a really good day – Praise the Lord!. Our boys had to keep their blankets on for their romp in the paddock, but they did not mind too much. After making sure that our boys were sorted out for the day, we were off to town – shopping yuck! Once we were done and loaded up, it was the cycle home – not to bad – there was very little wind. When I went to our boys in the afternoon, I was surprised to be met by the dogs and the cat, they were all waiting for their treats – they know exactly where we keep them, if they could get the box open I think they would.

Tuesday was a lovely day, it started out chilly, but by the time we were got to our boys it had warmed up quite a bit. On the way to our boys, we saw the little buck – reminded us of the “bokkies” in the “koppies” and our rides in amongst them – I miss those rides. After letting our boys streak around the paddock while we cleaned up, we put them back in their stables and headed home. After lunch we did some gardening – imagine me doing gardening – well we just really raked up leaves and tidied up – it was nice to do something constructive around the place. Kayla and I found a soccer ball in the garden, and played soccer for a while – it was really nice to just be outside and play. By the time the afternoon came, the skies got black again, and I thought I might get some rain on the way to the boys, but it never rained, it just threatened. After tucking the boys in for the night, and making sure they have enough grass I was on the way home again.

Wednesday was another chilly overcast day, so our boys got to stay tucked up for the day – no streaking! They did get to have their romp in the paddock, but they had to do it clothed. On our way to the boys, we decided to try another route, and it went right past the wind turbines – Wow!!!!! Are those things huge? Once we got our boys sorted out for the day, we were off back home, to hide away from the wind for the day. I managed to finish the book I was reading – The hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom. What that poor lady went through during the war and how she carried on after the war, all in the name of Jesus – if I could only do a quarter of what she did for the Lord, I would be happy. I am still trying to figure out my path for Jesus – I am sure of one thing though it includes horses – Clydesdales to be precise. The Lord would not have given me such a love for these majestic animals if I was not to have them in my life. I don’t know what my future holds, but I am sure the Lord will let me know when I need to know, in the meantime I need to be patient – not one of my strong suits, but I am working on it.

Thursday was pretty cold and windy, so once arriving at our boys they went out fully clothed again, no streaking in this weather. I have no idea what went on with Peri, but he was jumping around like a crazy horse, bucking, running, he was so alive, and it was so nice to watch him and Bailie play with each other. Once we were finished mucking their stables, the boys were tired of playing, and were waiting to come in, needless to say they were really dirty and needed a good groom. Once they were all clean and blanketed again, we were off to town to get some emergency supplies – it is a long weekend, so we are not sure when the shops will be open, so we got enough until Monday. At least we managed to get it all on out bikes – they do not carry too much, but we are getting really good at packing now! When I went to the boys in the afternoon, they had both finished their grass – very unusual, they normally only have half a hay net in the day – so they both were very happy in the paddock, and ate lots of food – Praise the Lord! our boys are returning back to their normal selves.

Friday morning was chilly, but the sun was shining – by the time we got to our boys, it had warmed up quite a bit. So our boys were allowed to streak, they loved it. Once we had done their stables and were ready to bring them in, we thought we would let them have a run in the rest of the paddock and hope they never noticed that the fence was down – stupid mistake. Both boys found the gap and took off, with Bailie in the lead – across the farmers’ fields. I have never seen them run like that since we started our trip – not even in Mauritius on the race track. I should have been mad at them, but I was so happy to see them just running free again. Kayla and I had to follow through the ploughed fields to catch them, which we did about a kilometre further – Man!!! is it hard trying to run in those fields. Afterwards I felt really bad for running through the fields, but we had to catch our boys, I hope we did not do too much damage – hopefully we never disturbed any new seeds. Once our boys were caught we walked them to the road and back to their stables – needless to say we had all had some good exercise. When our boys were packed back in the stables munching on their grass, it hit me that so much could have gone wrong with that little stint of theirs, but Praise the Lord! He kept everyone from getting hurt. By the afternoon the wind was blowing really cold again, so when I got to the stables, I tucked the two runaways up nicely for the evening in their blankets. Once I got back home, it started raining, so I also tucked myself up with a good book for the evening.

Saturday morning the sun was out again, but it was only 3 degrees, and windy, but our boys still enjoyed being out, while we cleaned up and stocked up their stables. Both boys checked the fences to see if they could escape again, but we had the gaps tied up with string, so no escapes could happen. We wanted to work in the garden, but the wind just blew everything away, so I guess we will have to try another day. I then did some reading, quite a fascinating book about a girl who travels from Argentina to New York on horseback – what an achievement, but there were moments of tears too – on her part and on mine. My reading was interrupted when I had to go and sort out our boys for the night, (make sure they had grass, water and were warm enough). Once I got back after a really windy ride, it was back to the book. Then at about 11pm, we saw the most stunning pictures of the moon – it was amazing!!!!!

Sunday morning the sun was out, and although chilly, it was a lovely day. The cycle to our boys was actually really pleasant – very little wind. By the time we got to the boys, it had warmed up enough to let them out without any clothes on. They must have been really itchy, because they chewed on each other most of the time they were out. It looked so funny when they came in with all their hair “gobbed” in different directions. After everything was done we went back home for lunch. The afternoon cycle was a little windy, but really not bad. The sun was hiding behind the clouds most of the afternoon, but then at about 7pm it came out again. I am finding it really strange that the sun is still shining just before 8pm.

Monday morning was really misty, windy and chilly. We were up early, because we had to get the stables early – the farrier was coming. So off we went cycling through the mist and wind. We got to our boys, and let them out to have their romp while we cleaned stables etc., while waiting for the farrier. We had finished everything, and our boys were back in and groomed, when the farrier arrived – late! It was not a problem, we had lots to do. After our boys had their pedicure, it was time for us to cycle home. The sun was trying to come out, but only managed to peek through the mist at about midday. The afternoon cycle was sunny, and a lot warmer – both our boys were hanging out their stables with their heads in the sun. Once I had done their grass and water, I put on their pyjamas and headed back home. Kayla and I played cards, and had a really good laugh, something we have not done for quite some time now – it was really good. I think the Lord has helped both of us accept the situation we are in, and we have decided to make the best of it.

Tuesday morning was another beautiful summers day. Our boys enjoyed their romp in the paddock, rolling all over the show. Once their stables were done, it was time for them to come back in, and Peri was not feeling to good. He had serious tummy cramps, and  diarea. I walked him in the paddock for about an hour, prayed a lot  and gave him some meds. By the afternoon he was fine again, eating and looking much happier. I only left the stables at about 2pm, then went home for lunch, and then was back by 4pm. I thank  the Lord that Peri was doing fine by the evening.

Wednesday was another lovely summers day – it only started getting really windy in the late afternoon. Peri was back to his normal self – thank the Lord! and him and Bailie ran around the paddock like crazy. Bailie uses any excuse to “get a fright” and go charging off, and Peri follows not realising Bailie is just messing around, and there is nothing there. I must say that both the boys stables were a mess, so we had to do a spring clean. The boys were really happy to come back into clean well stocked stables – spoilt brats! By the afternoon the wind had picked up, and the cycle to the boys was challenging, but at least the sun was still shining and it was nice and warm.

Thursday morning was really really windy, and miserable, it even started drizzling on the way to the boys. Our boys still enjoyed their romp in the paddock, and both of them went charging around like crazies again. Fortunately our boys do not go wondering off and stay close to us, because the people working on the other side of the paddock (putting in some pipe)had removed the paddock fence. As I said fortunately our boys don’t wonder, because we never noticed that there was no fence until we brought our boys in, so they easily could have gone roaming. I am not sure if our boys stay close because of us, or the fact that there is food in the stables, but I am grateful that they do not wonder, they run away into the paddock, and then come screaming back at a 100 miles an hour, just like little kids playing with Mom, and when they have had enough they stand and watch us, until we bring them in.

Friday and Saturday were rainy cold days – we should have been in bed the whole day, but we had to go and tend to our boys. They still enjoyed romping in the paddock, even with the wet weather, in fact I think they just loved getting all muddy. By the time we have finished with their stables, they were ready to come in, they were waiting at the gate. Once our boys were cleaned and tucked up for the day, they both seemed to be ready to go sleep. I can just imagine them both curled up with a good book and a pile of hay

Sunday morning was really sunny, so nice. Our boys had a blast in their paddock, rolling and playing in the sun, unfortunately the sun went away, and then the boys were happy to come back in to the stables and munch away on their grass. It started drizzling, and the cycle home was cool and wet, but later on the sun did come out again, and then played hide and seek the rest of the day.

Week 28 – Germany

Monday morning was a beautiful morning again, sun shine and blue skies. It is hard to believe that it was so miserable yesterday. What a lovely way to start off the week – Praise the Lord!. We had a good cycle to the stables, and the boys were happy to see us. They enjoyed their romp in the paddock while we mucked stables and did their grass and water. Once our boys were back in their stables having a good munch on their grass, we were off to town for some groceries. The cycle home was very windy, but we made it . Kayla is definitely getting fitter; she leaves me further behind every day. The afternoon cycle was also really pleasant – a little windy but not more than I can handle so I tucked the boys in for the night and cycled home.

Tuesday morning the sun was shining, and it was another beautiful day. The cycle to our boys was really hard as the wind was blowing like crazy, but we made it. Peri and Bailie were allowed to go streaking in the paddock again, as it was nice and warm, in fact they stayed in their birthday suits the whole day. Once we had finished with their stables, brought them in and cleaned them up, I just was cuddling and playing with Peri. He so wants his door open, he really misses having just a chain across his door. He also loves just standing with his front feet out the stable, he has always loved that. Once I was finished playing with Peri, I had to go into town to collect a parcel. We received a parcel from Roz – thank you Roz, you are such a blessing. The things that friends do for you are really appreciated – after all the people in your life are important. The cycle home was really hectic, but I made it, with the strength the Lord gave me. Somebody said to me that Praising the Lord will help you through anything, so I now sing praises while cycling, and it makes it so much easier. The afternoon cycle was just as windy, so I just sang harder and Praise the Lord we made it there and back.

Wednesday and Thursday were both lovely warm sunny days. The boys enjoyed the new warmer weather, romping outside and staying naked during the days. Peri and Bailie are enjoying the routine we have at the moment. Wednesday was full of emotional turmoil, getting bad news, and trying to make sense of it. Sometimes life is very hard, but I have the Lord on my side, and although we lost this battle, we will win the war. I have a wonderful God, who loves me, and will not put me through more than I can handle. I have realised that humans make mistakes to the detriment of others, and I haven’t yet worked out how to process that, and how to accept and deal with that, but I am working on it, I am sure the Lord will show me what to do when the time is right. There were a lot of tears, sadness, and anger, but after getting all sorts of lovely encouraging messages from all my dear friends – thank you for all the encouragement, I am ready to carry on another day. Sometimes you just wonder is it worth it – then you realise you are so close to the finish line, that you need to at least try and get there, and have faith along the way. Praise the Lord He is control!

Friday was another stunning summer’s day. The boys had a great time out and have enjoyed getting dirty rolling all over the paddock. The cycle to and from our boys both morning and afternoon were windy, but pleasant. Friday was a good day emotionally and weather wise – Thank you Lord! Faith and hope have been restored in our lives once again. Thanks to all the friends and family who helped with all the encouraging emails and sms’s – the Lord has really worked through you, to help us realise where we should be going. Life sends it’s knocks, sometimes they are harder than others, but in the end the Lord Jesus Christ helps us get up and carry on.

Saturday was another sunny summer’s day – I love the sun! There was a quite a wind, but we made the cycle to and from our boys without too much strain. I clipped Peri’s ears, so now he looks all sexy again – he was so good, and just stood still while I did it. I had an encouraging call from Klaus, it is so nice to know that he is still on my side. I also managed to wash Peri’s blanket, and get it patched – I am getting quite good at this patching thing now.  All in all, the Lord gave us a blessed day.

Sunday morning when I woke up, and looked at my cell phone, we were late, and had overslept – strange because every day I wake up at 6am, like clockwork. I rushed around getting ready, and Kayla kept telling me that I had the time wrong. Eventually I looked at my watch, and sure enough there was an hour difference. After googling the time, we figured it out, the clocks were changed for day light savings – so my clever cell phone changed itself – I guess if it was not for my cell, I would have never known. So after the time fiasco, we were off to the boys – they were happy to see us. They had a good romp in the paddock again, and they were happy to come in to eat again. The sun was shining, it was lovely and warm, although still windy, and the cycle home was challenging. I must say that the cycling does give a lot of time to chat to the Lord, it is peaceful, with no interruptions. I managed to wash Bailies blanket as well, so both our boys have clean, fresh smelling blankets – not sure for how long though, they love sleeping in their “poo”. At least our boys will start the new week clean.

Monday morning was really miserable and windy, and so was my emotional state. As hard as I try, I still cannot stop doubting that we will ever get to Canada with our horses. I am crying a lot, and doubting if I made the right decisions, and if I have jeopardised the whole family’s future – what have I done! The next minute I am positive and hopeful and full of faith that we will get there horses and all. I am doing a lot of praying and soul searching, then I realise that the Lord has a plan, and I am positive again. I have had my issues with Faith, not understanding it and not understanding why things happen the way they do, then I realise that I really need to just hand it all over to the Lord, He knows best. I have now given my horses over to the Lord, they are His now, and He will make the decisions for His horses. I just have to trust that everything will work out for the best, and according to the Lord’s plan. I forget sometimes that I am not alone, and that the Lord is with me every step of the way. When we went to the stables, and Peri called out and Bailie gave me that look of love, I was calm and happy again. Bailie made friends with one of the dogs at the stables, it is so sweet to watch Bailie nibbling at the dog. Our boys had a good play in the paddock, even the sun came out for a while, and the two of them got nice and dirty. After mucking their stables, and getting them all cleaned up it was time to go home. The afternoon cycle to our boys was windy, but not too bad, I am not sure if we are getting fitter, or if the wind is not blowing as hard. It is getting warmer here, so our boys do not have to wear their really thick blankets anymore, which I am sure they are glad about. We still blanket them, but with thinner blankets.

Tuesday morning I was very emotional again, but after some prayer and quiet time, I felt a lot better. We are really missing our family a lot now. The weather was pretty gloomy, but at least there was no rain, and when you out of the wind it is quite warm. We had to go into town today for some emergency supplies – toilet paper , so after attending to the boys, we were off to town. All the farmers were out in their fields ploughing and spraying their crops, it was so nice to see. There were people making gardens and cleaning up dead leaves from winter, all over the show – wow! It is definitely spring. The new little sprouts are popping out all over the show – what a miracle – everything looked so dead, and now it is all coming to life – the Lord God is great! The afternoon trip to our boys was challenging because of the wind, but we embraced the challenge and cycled there and back with smiles on our faces. The boys were really happy to see us and they both nuzzled us quite a bit.

Wednesday morning I woke up with the chirping of birds outside the window, I am not sure if there are more of them or if they are just getting louder because they are happy about it being spring – whichever it is, I like it! I had some quiet time and time to read the Lords word in the morning, and I have found that it calms the soul and heart to know that the Lord is here with us. I have realised that I have a lot to learn, being thankful and trusting the Lord are right on the top of the list. The cycle to the boys was a very pleasant, not too much wind. The boys were really happy to see us, and thoroughly missed us. After a romp and run in the paddock, the boys were happy to come back in and eat. After getting the boys all cleaned up, it was time to cycle home, which was really pleasant. Kayla has got lots of energy lately, or she is getting very fit, I can really not keep up with her  anymore . The afternoon cycle was also pleasant, just a little chilly.

Thursday morning was the most beautiful summer’s morning – the sun shining, the birds chirping – Wow, God is good! It was still a little chilly on our cycle to the stables, but by the time we got there it had warmed up considerably. The boys had their romp in the paddock without blankets, and really enjoyed rolling all over the show. Once their stables were cleaned and all the grass and water was replenished we brought them in to clean them up. It was warm enough that we did not have to blanket them after grooming them, and I think they really enjoyed being naked for the day. We then cycled back home and enjoyed it, there was very little wind, the sun was shining, the farmer’s fields are going green and we saw some buck running in the fields – absolutely stunning. The cycle to and from the boys in the afternoon was just as pleasant. I also realised what a wonderful support group of people I have around me – all ready to jump in and help – I just thank the Lord for all the wonderful people in my life, you are all blessings!

Friday morning was another beautiful sunny morning. It was also about 9 degrees, so no jackets necessary. Peri and Bailie again enjoyed running and playing naked in the paddock and they spent the day naked as well – they are loving “streaking” around. Once we got the boys back in to their stables, it was time to go to town. The cycle was challenging to say the least; the wind gave us a real run for our money. The ride back was just as challenging – you see the wind was coming from the side, not the back or front, but we made it. The afternoon cycle was a little more pleasant, the wind had let up a little. Once we were back from the boys, I spent some time in the garden where we staying, I have not really done this since we’re here. The flowers are starting to bloom and there are buds on the trees, the miracle of life is just so amazing! The other thing that really impresses me here, is the compassion people have for others, there are always young people pushing older people in wheel chairs – taking them for walks. The other thing that impresses me is the amount of parents that take their kids for walks – I love to see the families spending time together – it makes me miss my family even more, and want to spend more time with them, I want to be able to spend time doing the simpler things with my family, with no rushing off in all directions all the time. I think at last I am growing up and realizing what is important in my life – Praise the Lord!

Saturday morning I went for a ride of Faith and at last I understand what Faith is. I decided that I was going to ride Peri, and Kayla did her best to get me not to – firstly she did not want me to ride bareback, then she kept telling me how hyperactive Peri is, and he has not been ridden for so long, and that I should not take him out alone. Anyway I did not listen and after we mucked stables, I hopped on Peri and off I went. Firstly he was a little jumpy, but we got over that. Another horse came up from behind, but after talking to Peri, he calmed down, and that was fine, we then had a few tractors to contend with, but we got through that too. We rode down along the road, then in between a few fields. We then turned around to come back to the stables. On the way back, there was a tractor, so we stopped let it pass – no problem, but then a Bakkie with a trailer carrying trees that were hanging off the sides came past. I saw it coming and started panicking, I probably scared Peri more than the bakkie – Peri made a 360 spin, and had a little wobbly, but I got him back on the path and carried on again. I then was totally relaxed, and a bird flew out the bush at us, well both of us got a fright, but just a quick one and we were over it. Once back at the stables, I thanked the Lord that neither, Peri or I were hurt. On the cycle home, it hit me, my ride on Peri was like faith – people try and get you to doubt, but you must persevere, then when you get scared, and spin off the track the Lord is there to bring you back, and when you are relaxed and trusting, you get through things easier  – I cannot believe it, that something as simple as a ride on one of God’s creatures can teach me so much – at last I get it Wow!!!!

Sunday was a rather dull, wet day. So after we had been to the boys, mucked their stables, groomed them and tucked them up for the day, it was time to go home and cuddle up with a good book. I read the book Soul Surfer – what an inspirational book, it is all about Faith and what Lord Jesus Christ can do – I guess the Lord is telling me something

Monday morning was really dull and dreary, but at least it did not rain. After a windy cycle we got to our boys, and they were happy to go out while we mucked their stables. Once we had brought them back in to clean stables, with fresh grass and water, Kayla and I had to go shopping in town – we try and only do it once a week. The cycle from town home was windy once again, but we made it eventually. The cycle to our boys in the afternoon was also quite windy, but at least the skies had opened a little. After topping up grass and water and tucking our boys in for the night, it was time to return home again.

Tuesday morning there was the most beautiful sunrise. What a pretty day. Our boys were happy to go out in the paddock with no blankets for a change – needless to say they both rolled and looked like mud monsters when it was time to bring them in – they had a blast. Once we brought our boys in, the grooming took a while to get them clean, but they had fun, so it was worth it. Once cleaned, watered and grassed, we put on their day blankets, because the wind had started blowing again, and we do not want our boys getting sick. In the afternoon the wind was still blowing, so the cycle was challenging to say the least. The clouds had started rolling in, but the sun was still trying to stick it’s head out, which made some lovely scenes. We stopped to take pictures, but it is prettier in real life. Once our boys were put into their pyjamas, we were off back home.

Wednesday norning was back to being overcast, cold and windy Our boys had to go out with blankets on again, but they still had fun chasing around the paddock. After having a good play, they were ready to come back in and eat, while they got groomed by us humans. Once we had groomed, grassed and watered our boys we were off home again. In the afternoon, it started raining again, but horses were tucked up and so were humans, so none of us minded the rain.

Thursday was a cool, but sunny day. The clouds tried to cover the sun, but the sun managed to stay out most of the day. Our boys had a really rough night, and both their stables were a mess, and very wet, so they were glad to get out in the paddock, so we could clean up their messy stables. Once their stables were cleaned, and grass and water were filled up, they were happy to come in again. After grooming them really well, and giving them their carrots, it was time to go home again. By now the wind was blowing quite visiously, which made the cycle home really challenging. The afternoon cycle was also windy and challenging, but our boys appreciate seeing us, and getting their afternoon carrots.

The rest of the week the weather was pretty much the same, overcast with the sun popping its head out every now and again. Our boys are doing fine and enjoy their run in the paddock everyday, but love coming back in to their clean stables to eat again. The last couple of days have been hard, with decisions that needed to be made, and a lot of soul seaching had to be done. I had lost faith in the Lord, and got really dispondant, but through the word of God, and the messages from friends and family I have managed to pick up the emotional pieces and I have realised that the Lord Jesus Christ has a plan, for the greater picture, and I need to accept that and I need to trust the Lord as He will never give us more than we can handle. I have handed our boys and our lives over to the Lord to sort out – He knows what needs to happen for us to get the final leg completed on our journey to Canada, and we are trusting him to get us there. I have stumbled and fallen but the Lord Jesus Christ is there to pick me up and put me back on my way – thank you Lord!

All we have to do is look around at the wonderful things the Lord has given us, and say Thank You Lord ! If the Lord can make beautiful skies like this, then surely He can get two horses and humans to Canada.