Kenya is no longer a part of our horse family. There. I said it.
Before I explain what led to this turn of events, I will tell you that she is at a good home. I gave her to my farrier, with full disclosure. When he heard that we were seeking a new home for her, he called immediately. He's young, and a very good hand with horses. He is more than up to the challenge she presents, and, most importantly to me, will take good care of her. I will never let a horse leave my care without 100% certainty that he or she is going to a safe place.
The decision was based as much on economics as it was on my personal safety. Over the course of the week, the other denizens of Che Buckskin expressed their misgivings with my bullheadedness at wanting to continue. They were more than a little concerned that I would end up dead, or worse, paralyzed.
As the week progressed, I began to think more rationally. Smarter people than me pointed out that I don't have the experience to tackle a problem of this nature. As I sit here, still nursing the physical pain from her attempts to use me as a lawn dart, I acquiesce to the reality of the situation. This is a hobby. I do not make a living from my horses. At no time is it worth placing myself or a horse at risk of severe injury or death.
One can almost hear the collective sigh of relief from my family and friends. I can be a bit stubborn and single minded at times, as well as a bit loathe to give up, even when the battle is clearly lost.
Economically, the need to trim the herd has been present since the Fall. To properly care for and feed a horse is not inexpensive. I won't bore you with a detailed breakdown of the expenses, but suffice to say that having five is even harder on the bank account.
This was not an easy decision, but I am surprisingly at peace with it. I still have my gelding Smokey. Riding him is akin to putting on an old pair of jeans. Comfortable, and a great fit. I haven't blogged much regarding Old Joe, yet. He's been my #1 horse buddy for over 3 years now, and there are plenty of tales where he is concerned.
I want to thank all of you for the support you have shown me while I tried my hand at this endeavor. I hope that you won't think any less of me, but if you do, I understand.
10 comments:
Hey, it takes a big man to admit when it's time to throw it in. Nothing wrong with that. The bigger mistake would've been to stubbornly put yourself and the horse through more than either of you really want.
Why would I think less of you? You used your brain and common sense, this is a GOOD thing in my book!
Glad to hear Kenya is in good hands, and that the likelihood of you ending up on life support (or in a coffin!)has diminished tremendously.
Knowing when to "fold 'em" is a lost art, in my opinion. So many times we "stay the course" because we said we would, even though circumstances have radically changed.
It sounds to me as things worked out exactly as they should - the key being your feeling of peace with the situation - always an indicator.
Now, hope you enjoy Smokey and the summer. There may come another opportunity to start a horse, the right horse for you, at the right time.
I once had a real cowboy tell me that the old "you have to get back on when you have been bucked off" is good up to a certain point.Then he said, "When you worry about your safety, don't be stupid." I think you were probably very smart in this case. I've seen horses come and go from our place - some I really miss and others I don't. If you have two really good ones, I would think that is a lot these days. I have three and two are not good. Although we have had those two since they were born, I would gladly trade them for one good riding horse that would stand still while I waller my butt into the saddle.
I agree with Ann... knowing when to fold is something of a lost art. And I also think ya did "the right thing," Buckskins. Good on ya!
You did what you had to do and that's all there is to it. I do hope that you keep blogging.
Thank you everyone for the support.
Ann & Buck: I agree with the sentiment on "knowing when to fold 'em".
Lou: My Father-in-Law had the same sentiments. When it comes to cowboys, he is the real deal. Immediately after finding out what happened, his recommendation was to send her down the road.
I do plan to keep on blogging. There are still plenty of horse tales to be told.
I was away and so missed your posts. I think you made the right call though I can tell how hard it was for you. Noone would think less of you at all. Look forward to more of your blogging. Smokey is gorgeous. On my travels over in the States recently I saw fields full of Smokeys! I so would love to own/ride one. They're stunners. Horses here in the UK are beautiful but Smokey and his kind have a special kind of beauty.
How could we think any less of you? You're a good horseman who cares for his animals. Not every fit is a good one, intelligent men concede that point and move on.
You've got a best friend, tell us more about him. I'd love to hear about your rides in the woods, when you bought him, the things that make him special.
Or you could start slinging politics. ;-)
Daphne & Alison: Thanks for the support. I didn't think any one would think badly of my decision, but there is always that twinge of self doubt.
I've got scores of tales to tell about Smokey, so fear not, the blog will continue.
Although I might need a new name.
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