Ever since I began writing with the intention of making it a career, there have been things I've had to let slide. The house isn't as clean as it used to be. The yard doesn't look as good. My horses get fed and the barn gets cleaned, but that's about it. Although the horses haven't complained, the lack of attention shows. I used to clean out their hooves every day--sometimes twice--but a few years back, I quit doing that. At first, it wasn't a problem, but the change has been slow and insidious. I missed infections and other problems in the early stages when they could have easily been alleviated, and left unchecked, they've taken their toll. Granted, part of their chronic lameness is due to the weather--very wet springs and summer droughts--but other problems are simply due to neglect.
Now that I have more time, I'm working to change that, and I've already seen a difference. Kes has only been lame intermittently, but Jadzia has been gimping around for months. However, yesterday afternoon, they were out by the arena when I went to feed them, and they both galloped up to the barn. To call it a sight for sore eyes is an understatement. I was thrilled.
Other tiny tasks have gone undone. I've got three boxes of Miracle Grow sitting on the porch, but have I bothered to use it to feed any of the houseplants? Nope. They've been lucky to get watered. Amazingly, the poinsettia I bought last Christmas is still alive. Who knows what will happen when I start paying more attention to it. It might even grow full-sized leaves and bloom!
For the first time in years, I'll be putting out a garden and at least have the hope that I'll have the time to make it a success. Planting and tilling isn't the problem. It's the lack of proper maintenance, which is what a great many things around here have been missing.
Speaking of maintenance, I believe I have a hunk who needs washing. Please excuse me...
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