Everything at Brimpts has quietened down now, except, that is, for the weather. The ponies have accepted that winter is well and truly on the way and they spend long periods resting, conserving energy and fat supplies. They watch everything that is happening on the rest of the farm and are only galvanised into action when they see us approaching the paddocks. They know that they will get some fresh hay and possibly a piece of carrot. Last year, as you can see from the picture, the paddocks stood up quite well to the rigours of winter. This year, however, the surface has already been cut up like a football field with all this rain and the ponies will be moved to a higher field to rest this one.

Ian, the foot trimmer, has been again and given them all a pedicure and considering the ground they have been on, their hooves are perfect.

Miss Mousie is settling in well and when with the others, is proving to be quite a spirited filly not at all as her name implies!!!. We were terrified that they would pick on her and give her a rough time when she joined the gang. They did for the first day or two, except that she was far too fast for them and they could not catch her. Now, she shoulders her way into the middle and is not averse to giving a dose of hind feet to anyone. She follows us around like a puppy and thoroughly enjoys human contact. They all have some sort of contact with us (fuss), under the pretext of a physical examination when we are with them. Just to make sure they have no injuries or runny eyes and noses. Bit like looking after children in a way! Charlie has a habit of lying in the mud and this gets caked all over his tummy and other bits so this is removed.

Remember to come and see us, at Brimpts, on the 28^th and tell Dru please, 01626 355314, so that we have enough mince pies. Also come up to Bellever and pick your own free Christmas tree, pulled from the forest by Dartmoor ponies. Monday 21^st December is your last opportunity.

From everyone at the DPHT and also the ponies we wish you a very happy Christmas and a wonderful 2010. We hope to see you next year at Parke.