and speaking of Craigslist

A couple of months ago, I had a serious talk with myself about Libby. I love that filly. Even Cliff loves her, and he's not much for horses. But it's obvious I was never going to get her broke to ride by myself, and I didn't want to throw more money into getting her trained when horses are worth so little right now... especially grade fillies.

I kept saying that as soon as Cliff had time to take some pictures of Libby, I'd put her on Craigslist for $300. Catching Cliff with any extra time is very difficult just now, thanks to our recent moving, and the moving of his sister into our old house. Not to mention that it's haying time. Which means you usually see Cliff doing something like this

or this.
So yesterday when we went for our walk, I took my camera along in case we came upon the horses, and I had Cliff take this picture and a couple of others.
I described Libby in an ad as accurately as I knew how, emphasizing that she is not broke but that I've been on her a few times in the round pen. I extolled her gentle nature and mentioned that she's naturally gaited. I stated, "If I can't get $300 for her, I'll keep her as a pet."

One man kept insisting he was interested in her for his eleven-year-old daughter; I firmly told him I would never recommend an unbroke horse for a child.

Today a different man came to look at her, saw how sweet-natured she is, and gave me the money right then and there. He'll be back in eight or ten days to get her. He raises gaited mules, and Libby will get to be a professional mom. How cool is that?

Many years ago I tried to raise a colt and vowed I'd never do it again; the colt was unresponsive, and I realized I wasn't qualified to train horses. I'm glad I broke that vow, because Libby has been a joy to have around, even though I'm no more qualified now that I was before. Some horses, like some people, radiate joy. That's Libby.

One reason I knew I needed to sell her is that I've seen some excellent bargains on older horses that are well-broke. Horses that are ready to ride, that even a child could ride. I refused to even think about another horse as long as Libby was here. Horses are not cheap to have around. We raise our own hay, but it isn't free by any means. My husband works hard to get it up dry and in the barn, and diesel fuel for the tractors is sky-high.

So I'm sure I'm doing the right thing. I asked the man if he'd keep my email address and send me a picture of Libby with her first mule-baby. He said he would. I sure hope he remembers!