Sunday- in motion

Today's Sunday Stills challenge was to photograph what Christmas means to you. I know what I wanted to do, but couldn't find it. Christmas for me is the celebration of the birth of Christ. Anything else- the tree, presents, decorations, parties and big dinners, are all just things that go along with such a joyful occasion. And since I don't have a nativity set worth putting out this year, I didn't get a photo to share. Didn't find any displayed around town either, although I heard of a good one but didn't have time to get up to see it. Our church is setting theirs up today, so didn't get that either. So, instead of Sunday stills, I have some other tidbits for you.
A while ago, I mentioned that I had submitted some photos for the Credit Union calender again this year. There were over 400 entries from 33 people, and they chose one of mine for November. Do you all remember this shot? Also, they are using the photos on their new website, and I was pleased to see mine there the other day.

If anyone would like one of these calenders, I have a few and can send some out. They aren't anywhere near as nice a calender as Fern Valley Appaloosa calenders, but there are some pretty shots in  it. This really is a lovely area.
I took Chickory out for a little longer ride around the hayfield today, a nice relaxing ride. She was on alert about a few things, like the car with the dog running beside it, and the mysterious lumps at the edge of the hayfield (last years round bales) but over all she is turning out to be a pleasure to ride. Her version of alert is ears up, stare holes in the object, and keep walking. Her body doesn't tense up. Yet.

Did you notice, no snow?

She is a thinker, which surprises me a little, I thought she'd be way  more reactive. She was very light to the rein and leg, but does not like to ride with contact on the reins. A few times she stretched her neck down and leaned on the bit, but a bump with my leg and a vocal reprimand fixed that. I know she is having some teething issues because I found one of her caps in the corral the other day. She will be 4 in April.

Another thing I like about her is that she isn't bothered by the dogs, she pretty much just ignores them even if they come running up from behind. Good Chickory.

Isn't she a stout little mare?  Gussie is a full hand taller than her, but Chickory is as wide in the chest. Strong back and good bone too. Cute doesn't hurt either.