And to all a good night…..

T’was the night before Christmas and all through the stables, all the creatures were stirring, those that were able.

The horses were talking as they often do, when we aren’t there to hear them and neither are you.

Willie laughed at a joke he make about Preacher, who was trying to bite Hope if he only could reach her.

Dusty sang “A neigh in manger” and Deck the Stalls”, while Rowdy’s head moved in time with it all.

Jewel, out in the cold wished she were in, and Blend in their stall wore a big grin.

Petie was snug in the stall that he shared, with Zero who tried to look like he cared.

Midnight knew very well which horse was here first, and laughed out a Hunter – whose plan of revenge he rehearsed.

Java was dancing and bobbing his chin, heard Scout humming carols and gladly joined in.

Cody, the reiner, was spinning with glee, and Oni the runner was dreaming of speed.

And then there was Lightning just trying to sleep, cause he had reputation in the daylight to keep.

Willie was Willie what else can you say, and Rocky was grinding his teeth in that way.

All blanketed and snug in her stall was Callie, then came the Carlisle’s horses, the pig and the minis.

When out in the paddock there arose such a clatter, every one’s ears perked up – what was the matter?

First they could hear the thump of big paws, and smell the bad breath and see the big claws:

They began to get nervous and all started to whinny, (all except for Zero who was a bit skinny),

And to their surprise out on the road, there appeared a small waif carrying a big load,

Could it be, was this the right day? Had Santa really come would they get extra hay?

And into the barn with a smile and big mutt, and an arm full of carrots and candy and stuff.

Was their favorite Santa come to see them, On Christmas morning, in the cold to feed them.

From the long night of neighing and keeping the sound up – Shelly wished them Merry Christmas at the horsey barn round up!

By Miami Phillips