This is a phrase that we use around here, to indicate perceived disbelief. It usually is uttered when one or the other of us says to one or the other of us, “I have to get up early.” This is a Minnesotan phrase, and one that we picked up when we lived there, back in the days of wagon trains.

The days of wagon trains were not that long ago, or this is what I keep telling myself.

Uff Da, I got up early. Uff Da, I did my exercises. Uff da, I washed the dishes that didn’t get cleaned last night. Uff Da, I went to the hotel and boxed up three boxes of books, being careful to pack the books up directly on the rolling cart because I am not to lift heavy boxes. Uff Da, I then drove to the Butte, and met my friend Cathy at the old Bodenberg Loop intersection.

Chalk Table

The rest of the day went fairly easy. I met Natasha, who is a friend of Cathy’s. She has an actual farm, which consists of 14 acres upon which reside seven horses: two minis, a Morgan, a big pinto thing, the Mustang Annie who used to be owned by Alicia Hall who now for several years has resided in Virginia Crawford’s old place, and best of all, two Icelandic mares.

The Icelandics – they were formerly owned by Misty Circle, who breeds and sells them young, at very high prices. One of these mares, Soley, is like Raudi, a chestnut, and very willful. The difference is that she also seems to have a temper, which Raudi lacks. With Raudi it’s simply, what Raudi wants, Raudi will get. The other horse, I did not catch her name, is a real darling. Now if I didn’t have three mares who I am not spending enough time with, I’d make Natasha an offer I can’t refuse.

On the drive home, I let my mind wander and thought about taking Soley on. Now I am not as young as I used to be, but the desire to train/educate a young Icelandic horse is still there, which is a good thing. I would simply take my time and take hers.

The high point of the road trip was meeting Natasha’s father, who was very kindly. His face radiated warmth and kindness. He reminded me of Cheryl Chapman, who is much the same way.

I also enjoyed meeting Katie, Natasha’s young neighbor. She had braces and a ball cap advertising the name of her orthodontist. Now if I am not invited back the reason is going to be that I was far too outspoken about too many things, one of which is round penning horses. Katie, in particular, was rolling her eyes when I expressed my viewpoint about this activity, and I even called her on it.

Natasha has two young and very active little boys, so she isn’t riding very much these days. I’d like to ride with her. I did invite her over here, so that she might meet my bombproof horses.

Nexst: 279. 10/14/24: Big Peaches