Happy - our family’s surprise Shetland pony – displayed a robust and stubborn self-will. With bridle and bit in hand, I ventured toward her through knee-high grass. Only after long minutes of cajoling and coaxing under a blazing Texas sun did my allurement strategies pay off. Finally, a small collection of sparkling white sugar cubes extracted from a blue jean pocket and displayed within Happy’s line of vision enticed the animal to yield. Moments later, my handkerchief dripped with forehead perspiration. An East Texas summer can be hot indeed!