The sun’s out and there isn’t much snow, but nothing’s melting at all. It’s been bitter cold during these days between Christmas and New Year’s and lessons have cancelled all week.

I’ve had a little too much time to think. It’s easy to get sentimental this time of year, but I am feeling full-out mushy.  I’m missing horses and riders who aren’t around. Some have moved away and sent holiday cards with photos and wacky drawings. Some have only transitioned out of lessons for the holiday season, but the horses have a way of sticking in my head, even in their absence.

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?

Not a chance. ‘Tis the season to hum Auld Lang Syne (because no one knows all the words) and remember some really spectacular moments shared with my clients over the last year: there were courageous first steps and flawless canter departs, leg yields as smooth as skating on ice and half-steps that hung in the air just a bit longer than expected.

Best of 2012 lists are everywhere this time of year, and now Readers, I’m hoping it’s your turn. I’ve been writing for you all year. Would you kindly return the favor?

What’s your Best of 2012 moment with another species? No restrictions, it’s a way of saying thanks. Would you share a few sentences about the moment that you savor above the others? Or even just your partner’s name or a photo link. I know it’s dorky, even embarrassing, but humor me. Big or small, share that moment that stays in your mind. Edgar says pretty please.

We’ll take a cup o’ kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.    - Robert Burns.

Let’s share a midnight toast to the perfect moments shared with animals this year and celebrate our rich legacy- for old time’s sake.

With a special debt of gratitude to my clients, I send best wishes for a New Year filled with peace, harmony and multi-species love from all of us at Infinity Farm.

And now it’s your turn…