New Projects Underway!

         So far the donation drive is going really well! My good friend in New York has informed me that already she has collected a bridle, a saddle pad, Vet Wrap, and some other basic medical supplies. In addition to horsey supplies, we have also recieved a few monetary donations as well! Thanks so much to everyone who has donated thus far, your generosity means a lot to the kids and I! 

First home-made halter!

         In other news concerning Vida y Esperanza.... unfortunately when I arrived at Blajot last Thursday I was informed that one of our *precious* bridles had been stolen. That means that now the program is down to only 5 bridles to use on the 10 horses. After sulking for an afternoon I went online and began looking for ways to fashion a bridle myself. I came across a website that suggested using old cotton belts as straps, and via their instruction my friend Lee and I made a halter using similar techniques. It came out rather nice if I do say so myself! Out of his own pocket, Jose Luis purchased some nylon webbing in order to attempt making bridles in a similar fashion, and the project commenced this afternoon! When all is said and done the bridles will end up costing the equivalent of about $8 each, the buckles and other hardware being the majority of the expense. We are able to make the "frame" of the bridle ourselves, but are unable to make or buy the most important part of the bridle in this country...... BITS!

The boys hard at work!

         This brings me to my next item... if you are considering donating something to the project, here is a list of items that are the most crucial:

In order for Black Beauty´s girth to fit,
three folded saddle pads need to be
 placed under the saddle! 

BITS - small, pony-sized

Bridles/Bridle pieces
Hardware - 1.5 in. metal rings, double/single-ended snaps
Girths - pony-sized
Stirrups

Pitu is lame due to this defect in his
right front hoof.

        In reality, behind bits monetary donations may actually be the most useful to the project. There are a number of things that are cheaper to buy here than to have shipped from the US, such as brushes and buckets. Money can also be put towards corrective shoeing, grain, and rental fees for Blajot.

Ceniza is currently nursing her 4-month-old colt
and expecting another... and as you can see she could
desperately use some nourishment!