03/08/08, 11:58pm…

March 8th, 11:58pm: Smile…you know after talking to so many of you today I already know that you are watching and waiting to silently say “hi” even as I type this. And now I know what some of you look like – up til now you’ve had the advantage and had seen me (like that’s helpful for anything I guess…). We’re really all friends and family at this point, aren’t we. We talked a bit about the forum today – again many thanks are owed to Sara (“Spooky”) for some long days and nights getting it going and then moving it once we realized the old server place couldn’t handle the volume you guys dish out. I hadn’t realized how much coming here to ‘virtual’ Raindance – this website – meant to so many. While Windchill was the being that drew you here, it seems Raindance has become your farm, if only on your computer screen. It seems to be the first visit of the day for most folks, checking over a cup of coffee and then the last stop before heading off to bed. Some of you check throughout the day as well – even now. I’m honored. I don’t feel like I’m much of a ‘speaker’ but it seems we’re destined to be lifelong friends, you the world and me. I’m glad I’ve gotten to see your faces so that as we get together here a couple of times a day and we talk over a steaming cup of coffee – I can picture you as well. Since Raindance has become your chosen country home – I’ll do my best in the days ahead to give you all a better picture of what it’s like here, how about that? I’ll take more pictures and introduce you to the residents of our pastures and house. Or if you’d prefer, I won’t bore you with those details. You can let me know.

Today was a good day. It was cold enough to at least give people a minimal taste of  what it was like February 9th. No wind, and 20 degrees warmer than it was that day but I think Windchill gave us enough of a taste. To counter-balance it he put in a good word and it was sunny out. Kind of bittersweet weather to match the occasion. Raindance’s flags have flown at half mast all week. Tomorrow (which is now actually today as I type this) the flags will return to their place flying high. Around 45 people visited today to see our place and Windchill’s humble stall. Windchill’s oak urn sat atop his favorite red blanket adorned by a patriotic cross, the small sack of tobacco, the prayer beads given while he was a live, and some pictures. The stall was decorated by all the cards we have received, along with the various children’s posters and book we received. The sled we pulled him out on was next to his urn. We can’t complain about a long day – Patty flew in from Indiana to be here – her day started at midnight the night before. She brought treats for everyone and a beautiful floral arrangement with red roses representing Windchill and white baby’s breath representing the snow. Patty, you left before I could hug you goodbye, I was getting more coffee for everyone – I’m sorry! There was friends from around the area, the Twin Cities and the Iron Range. Lots of offers for help with the foundation in lots of ways – thank you so much. There is no unneeded talent – only unrecognized talent and skills and your skills are needed. Do you sew? Can you write? Take pictures? Help organize in your area? Make care packages for those doing rescue work? YOU are needed and you are powerful in your actions – every single one of you. As for those that came here Saturday – I only wish you people had eaten more! All those cookies and bars that people flew in for this occasion, neighbors bringing things by – you have to get better at eating in the cold if you’re to pull barn duty! Let’s hope someday the only barn duty anybody has to pull is for foaling. If we’re going to dream, dream big, right? I am going to be typing people’s names on Windchill’s “Thank You” list for a LONG time to come. A new friend came out to tell us they are building a barn in Iron River and will be accepting rescue horses as part of their plan. You see – one step at a time, Windchill has had an impact and influence. You – We – and Us – can make a difference. I’m so proud of all of you. So much so I even hugged people back. I guess you can thank Windchill for that – prior to February 9th I was happy having people outside of my ‘airspace.’ After February 9th I would take a hug from whoever wanted to offer it. Mostly because of the cold of course. Don’t want to sully my hardcore reputation. Thanks for making this a really special day everyone. And those that weren’t able to attend – we know you were here in spirit and we appreciate it.