OMG...Porcupines attacked Kota :0)

How in the world does Kota get porcupine quills on the inside of his left leg? I mean really! 

He was a good boy when I had to pull all of them out.  My only worry is there were 4 teeny tiny ones that I couldn't get out at the top of his hoof because they broke off right at the skin level.  I hope they dissolve before they cause any problems.  Poor little fellow.  Never a boring day on the Bjerke Ranch. 

First weight on Aiahni - Ahni (for short) my precious little girl!

My neighbor Yenta Clydsdale asked me if I had ridden Ahni yet...I replied no...with a tinge of pain...
Ahni and I have been working on lunging and ground driving in order to get her ready for the "big" moment, but I haven't felt she was ready for that first mount...maybe it was me that wasn't ready.  I have an arena, but I hadn't fenced off a smaller portion in order to keep little Ahni contained and give her and me a sense of safety.
Yesterday I decided I would fence off a smaller portion with my movable panels and see how she would act in that environment.  I wasn't 100% sure if I would get on or not, it completely depended on how Ahni was behaving.
Well, I didn't get completely on, but I did let her feel my weight.  I know I am ridiculously slow with my training, but I like to make sure we are both ready! Here are a few pics that Joe took.

Loosening her up and determining if she's listening.

Whoa on command, very important! :0)

Reining her on the ground. 

I use a step because it helps ease the pressure on their shoulders. Well that's my story and I'm sticken to it!
 

Feeling the weight. I almost feel sorry for her. :0)

I love my girl!

I adore her...she's my special little girl!

Elder Berries!

Picked Elder berries with Mikey and now I'm desteming them. Alot of work, but it is so worth it!

Jelly and Syrup...I can't wait!