The days are getting shorter. Russell's brain takes note; his body responds. He is shedding his summer coat, which means that winter hair is starting to grow. Grooming creates flurries of short hairs, in contrast to the furry blizzard of the spring shedding season.

There is little daylight left after chores to ride by. No worries; Russell and I can do our thing in the arena in the dark. We have spots that shine out into the arena but I don't like their glare.

This is a hairy week around here schedule-wise, too. Riding time is going to be hard to come by, even the short rides of Russell's rehab. But we can ride in the dark.