Weanlings

Early fall at MVF, and it's time to wean the babies. Weaning saddens both the mares and the foals. But the mares soon get over it. The babies quickly adapt, too. They make friends with each other, forming a little kiddy herd. To make sure they don't become juvenile delinquents, the babies are put out with "aunties" or "uncles" -- older horses that teach the babies manners. This year Auntie Sara and Auntie Ling are looking after the babies, and it's a job that the two aunties take very seriously.

The babies are taking an afternoon nap when the MVF roving photographer heads out to the big, back pasture. Sammie, the oldest, wakes up first and alerts the others by (I think) stepping on their heads as she jumps to her feet.

The babies hold a consultation. They decide to check out the photographer, because she might have food in her pockets.

The two aunties, however, think differently. Auntie Sara stations herself right by the photographer, while Auntie Ling shoos the babies away.

The photographer perserveres, and the two aunties finally get used to her. The kids don't -- they think a camera is a great toy!

Fun's over, and it's time to come in for the evening.