This week, Bee had some very special visitors, and she knew it. My daughter Jenna, granddaughter Henley, grandson Cullen, and husband Jim all came to the barn for some sweet family time. The Hastings crew made the trip from Nashville to surprise Jim for his birthday, and Bee just so happened to benefit from the celebration.

Bee was on her absolute best behavior, like she knew she was making a first impression. Henley gave her more carrots than she probably should have, and Bee gladly accepted every single one. She even gave Henley a “ride”—not out in the arena, but right in her stall, where she stood like an angel while Henley perched proudly on her back.

We also shared the sweetest walk with Bee from the pasture to the barn, and later back out again. I stayed between them for safety, but honestly, I probably didn’t need to. Bee walked so slowly beside her mini-guide, checking in with Henley often, like she was making sure she was doing it right. It was the gentlest I’ve ever seen her move. She knew how special Henley is to me, and it truly felt like she was taking care of her—not just avoiding harm, but actively protecting her.

Every few steps, she would glance at Henley to make sure she was in step, then look ahead to survey the surroundings, and then check back in with Henley again. Bee, still my heart.

Cullen was all in—from a safe distance. He pointed at the horses with excitement but had zero interest in climbing aboard. Fair enough, buddy. Bee can be a lot of horse to take in at any age.

Around the Barn

In other news, we had a pretty sweet breakthrough with the mini horses this week. If you’ve been following Bee’s story, you know that Pearl—the mini who first befriended Bee when she joined the front herd—has always been a bit shy around humans. In fact, most of the minis have perfected the art of politely ignoring us from just out of reach.

But carrots change everything.

This week, not only did Pearl let me stroke her face and neck, but so did Shrek, Jimmy, and Beans. I didn’t push, just offered a few treats and a lot of patience, and was rewarded with some nose touches and soft-eyed curiosity. It felt like a big day.

A New Mare in the Mix

The front herd welcomed a new addition this week: a beautiful mare named Sunny Day, owned by a spunky blonde named Carly who matches her coloring and energy. Sunny is around 17 years old, in good health, and has spent her years as a steady lesson horse for both new and experienced riders. We don’t know her full history, but it’s clear she’s been a trusted partner to many.

She came from the pasture across the street and is still adjusting. Unfortunately, she has had a bit of a rough start with a bite to the hindquarters. While we won’t name names, we all know who is probably behind that 🐝🙄.

Sunny misses her old herd and spends time each day gazing across the street and calling to them. But we’re hopeful she will find her footing soon. Neville, our steady front-herd boss, has a history of taking new mares under his wing. With the minis trying their best too, we think Sunny will settle in just fine.

Sunny Day checking out her new digs in the barn while she adjusts to the new herd and grazing full time.

No Bonus Buzz This Week

Between surprise visits, snuggles, mornings with mammy and a ride on Grapevine’s historic train, we’ve been a hive of busy bees. But we’ll be back next week with more Bee stories and barn updates.