It is only later in quiet reflection that we see the irony in the juxtaposition of our work. Our weekend started early and finished long, as we welcomed Darcy’s daughter into the world and onto a ranch that she has instant equity in. While the birth itself wasn’t completely outside of the bell shaped curve, several factors that ran the gamete from concerning to down right alarming kept us on edge and on our feet all weekend. Mathe’s (Mat-he) birth was a little difficult on Darcey, certainly there were preceding factors that may have contributed to this including stress and malnutrition. The baby was large and most likely over due….and Darcey has had more than her fair share of bringing foals into the world. Darcy retained her placenta for 53 hours leaving us helpless and frantic. We found ourselves able to cheer and celebrate the birth of Darcy’s last foal when at last as she finally passed her placenta. Her daughter, a stunning grulla Quarter Horse filly is healthy, nursing, showing signs of curiosity…and is bucking, playing, and beginning a life as a wanted horse. It is only in the dawn of a new day, when both mother and baby are out of the danger zone, do we remember that Darcy’s pregnant body, vandalized with thoughtlessly placed brands was sold callously to slaughter. This morning Darcy nurses her daughter in a well bedded stall, with a manger full of hay, and a red bucket that is delivers nourishment and a newly found dignity. Happy birthday to our perfect little Mathe…and a job well done to her remarkable mother, Darcy.