A Fine Day For a Roll

It was in the low 20sF when I walked to the barn this morning, but it was beautifully sunny, and we're promised 40 degrees later today. There was almost a layer of mist at ground level, and every surface was covered with a fine layer of frost:

Since temperatures were warmer today, both Dawn and Noble went out for the first time in a very long time without blankets - neither gets much of a winter coat, and I expected rolling. I usually don't get good rolling pictures, as I'm either without my camera or too busy with horses to take pictures. But this morning I was prepared.

As I was waiting to see what Dawn would do, Misty took a drink:

Dawn surveys her kingdom:

She chose to roll in the hay next to the round bale. Much sniffing and pawing to select a good spot:

Folding up:

Ahh! (Please excuse the excessively "anatomical" view.)

Neck-scrubbing and leg wiggling (Misty keeps a wary eye out):

Stretch:

And up:

Immediately followed by the same process on the other side:

Noble opted for his usual rolling spot near the gate:



Due to some hind-end arthritis (his 30th birthday is in May), he sometimes struggles a bit to get up, particularly when he's on his left side:

A good shake to finish off:

Noble usually rolls on both sides, but I think the crusty snow wasn't to his liking.

While I was filling water troughs, Dawn came up to drink. Despite the lens flare, I like this shot of her face, particularly the back-lit hairs and muzzle:

Her muzzle gets very square when she drinks (and icky troughs need scrubbing):

She let some water dribble from her mouth:

A sassy, gleaming Dawn butt on the way back to the round bale:

Sugar came up to drink next - her coat is gleaming:

Some obligatory Sugar nose shots:


Please enjoy your March day!