December 8th 2007

Hello to all,

 Time for another update from the stables. I'll start with letting you know that the December wormings are complete. We are good for another 3 months. Everyone was as fine as you can be with a tube stuck down your throat and nasty medicine squirted in there. But, the deed is done.

 With the help of LeeAnna and Aaron, we were able to get three more stalls prepared for occupation by our equine friends and the feed room moved and reorganized. Also, you will see 17 sheets of siding stacked in the breezeway of the barn. The continuing project of updating the barn and stalls will be starting again soon. It is a winter time project. We hope you will appreciate the final look.

 We have a web site for the stables. Take a look at it and let me know what you think. AL web design did the project and we like it. Let me know if you have anyone that needs a site and I will contact the owners. The link is:

We need your prayers concerning a filly colt. We had to wean a filly that belongs to LeeAnna Dowan-Hardy at only three months of age. The mare would not let her nurse anymore. We are starting up the hill in a long battle for her life. I sometimes like to think I know what I am doing when it comes to the needs of horses but I can always use the help of prayer.

Take a good look at Pal. The foundered horse in front of the house. He couldn't walk very well not long ago. His new diet is agreeing with him. You can find him cantering around his lot and throwing his head like a young fella. The cancer on his eyelid has improved and the redness/swelling has gone away. He is feeling much better and that is what my job is all about.

At this time of year, our family's wish to yours is peace, happiness and togetherness. Remember to give credit where it is due and thank our Lord during this celebration of his birth for all the blessings we receive.

Come see us at the Stables,

Richard, Jennifer and Matt Rowland

Update December 10th 2007

It is with heartfelt sadness that I write to inform you all that "Little Bit" was put to sleep this morning at 9:30AM. The Vet. felt she had a neurological problem that led to her death. Little Bit was owned by LeeAnna Dowan-Hardy and her husband Aaron. Though only 3 months old, she touched us all with her spirit and trying attitude. She fought hard but there were too many obstacles to overcome. Our hearts go out to her owners. We must realize that this is not a "Walt Disney" life we lead where everything works out the way we want, but one where a spirit greater than us knows what is best. LeeAnna, Aaron, Matt, Jennifer and I did all in our power to make her short life pleasant and her ending comfortable. In that, we succeeded. We can't ask for nor expect more.

To all, be at peace,

Richard