The nitty gritty

When I went out in the field to catch Thunder yesterday, I found him sleeping on the poop pile.

This was not unexpected. He loves that poop pile.

It's warm and steamy and fragrant. What more could a little Rocky Mountain Horse ask for?

I know some riders who are content to clean only the parts of the horse that are covered with tack. Alas, that is not me. It doesn't matter how short or how casual the ride is, I feel compelled to turn this...

into this.

Admit it, Thunder. You look - and smell! - so much better now!

Most model horses are presented in show condition with short, sleek coats, 

model by Ryan Jaeger

neatly groomed manes and tails...

model by Tiffany Purdy

and whiter than white markings. 

model by Ellen Yanosky

There's nothing wrong with this, of course. Most people - myself included - like clean horses.

model by Beth Kingdon

But what if you're painting a slightly unkempt, shagged coated pony? 

model by Christine Sutcliffe

This is something I've been struggling with. I don't want Bubbles to look like she's been sleeping on a poop pile, but I also think that maybe she's a little too freshly clean.

Today, I decided to make those whites a little less white.

I don't love it yet, but I think I'm on the right track. With a little more work, I should be able to find the right balance between cleanliness and realism. 

This is definitely the nitty gritty part of NaMoPaiMo, but the end is in sight. I can do this!