1st February – A Time of Renewal at Island View Riding Stables
At Island View Riding Stables, the spirit of Imbolg fills the air — daffodils in the garden and little lambs toddling about the fields, and a renewed energy that reminds us why we love life with horses.
Today, the 1st of February, marks the feast day of St. Brigid and the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolg. All over Ireland, people are busy making St. Brigid’s crosses to hang in their homes and stables — a tradition believed to keep both people and animals healthy and safe for the year ahead.
Imbolg celebrates the beginning of a new cycle of life after the long winter. The hens start laying again, the cows begin to milk, newborn calves and lambs frolic in the fields, and nature slowly awakens. The hardest part of winter is behind us, and we all look forward to new beginnings and a prosperous year.
At the stables, this is a busy and exciting time. We’re checking tack — repairing, replacing, and maintaining it — and bringing the first of our trail horses in from winter pastures to get them fit for the riding holiday season, which begins around St. Patrick’s Day.
In the office, I (Ursula) can feel the buzz too! Every day brings new bookings — returning clients who’ve become dear friends, and new clients who soon will be.
Our horses feel the spring in the air. They love playing in the fields and heading out for beach rides along the coast. Our weaned foals are starting “play school” , learning the ABC of being handled. The three-year-olds are coming in for training — curious, eager to learn, and so trusting. I get emotional when I think how lovely this is and how lucky we are to work with these wonderful homebred youngsters.
Spring a wonderful time to be alive, full of hope and promise. Each evening, as the daylight stretches a little longer, we’re reminded that brighter days are just ahead — filling us with renewed energy and joy.
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