Hello my friends, and welcome to another exciting edition of the Gimli Gazette, where I fill the Internet with goodness, truth, and beauty while serving children at Mercy Spring Ranch.
Children are the focus of most of my reflections on this blog. Today I am responding to a few questions from two sisters. I have known them for years, and it is my joy to see them growing up before my very eyes.
Both of them asked how I am doing since the passing of Mr. Connor. That is a very kind and thoughtful question, which speaks well of them. As I have mentioned in previous postings, the first couple of weeks were rough. I did not have much of an appetite, and my whole demeanor was not very positive. But thanks to the love and support of the children and my fellow equine residents at the ranch, I am getting better. I still miss him terribly, but now there is visible light at the end of the tunnel.
They also ask what kind of horse I am hoping will take Mr. Connor’s place in the paddock next to mine. I do not have a particular breed in mind. For me, a horse’s personality is much more important than its breed. Connor and I would play together in the arena, and we would watch each other’s back. He was a loyal friend to me. My first priority for a new neighbor would be someone who is compatible with me. A horse that is good with children and a talented soccer player would certainly be a plus. He does not have to own all my CDs and be a member of my international fan club to win a place in my heart (though it wouldn’t hurt if he was already an admirer).
And speaking of admirers, I have noticed a lot of talk about upcoming graduates coming to the ranch to pose for graduation pictures, possibly with Ladyhawke. She is certainly a fine backdrop for such a photo shoot, but I fear that they are missing out of an opportunity to immortalize this moment in their lives with yours truly. I realize that it can be quite intimidating to be in the same photo shoot with an internationally known celebrity horse. They may also fear that their parents could not afford my usual sitting fee for such events.
As a gift to these new graduates, I will be waiving my normal fees and allowing pictures to be taken at no charge. Such a charitable act on my part qualifies for a full tax deduction when I file my 1040 form next year, so I will be getting my well-deserved compensation. I will tone down my dazzling presence so as not to outshine everyone else in the photo when it is framed and put on the wall in their homes.
Well that’s all I have for this posting. Keep those questions coming in to me. I have so much wisdom to share with the world, right here for the asking!
Happy Trails,
Gimli July 31, 2025