Reader Story Fridays: Sandy's Story

Name

Sandy

How long have you had horses?

30 Years

When you're worn out, what motivates you do get out and spend time with your horses?

Even when I"m exhausted I go to my horses.No matter what, they help me to relax. Even if the only thing I do is sit and listen to them chewing their food or watch them interact with each other in the field. I just love the smell of my horses and the barn, the freedom I have there is amazing and unlike anythinmg else in the world. With them is where I belong.

Describe your dream horse

My dream horse wouldn't necessarily be what most people think. It doesn't have to be some amazing mystical creature that arises from the pages of a fairy tale. Just a Horse that is wonderful in it's self. One with an excellent personality and willingness to do the things I enjoy. A true Companion.

Have you ever had to say goodbye to a beloved horse? Tell us about it.

Several. With as many horses as we have had over the yearsin my family, we have lost many wonderful horses that could never be replaced. From the very first horse I was ever on (at 7 1/2 months old), to my first pony. Our beloved little mini mare and most recently our best broodmare. Not to mention several others along they way. No matter how many you lose or don't lose, it never gets any easier and will always tear at your heart strings.

Sometimes horse owners have to improvise. Whether it's homemade halters to catch a runaway or making trail obstacles out of whatever's handy, what have you done that's creative with your horse?

Improvision seems to be the ONLY way I am able to do anything! Hahaha. From tying fences together with twine, using a belt or dog leash for a halter, to melting snow for water. Or maybe using a hog panel and a tire to drag the arena and fields. Or being broke down along side the road in someones drive way having to pull your horse out of the trailer for the tow truck to take your truck and having to wait for a ride. All the while not wanting to leave a mess for the people who live there, so when your horse poo's & you realize you forgot your pick or shovel or even a rake! A bucket and several paper plates just have to get the job done!

How have you shared your love of horses with others?

As much as possible! WE have had several school classes take field trips to our barn where they spend the whole day learning as much as they can. I also have a bartering program (for teenage girls mostly) where they can come work a little to get as much time with horses and riding lessons or even just saddle time as they want. Especially in todays economy, it gives people an opportunity to experience something that they otherwise may never be able to.

The NWHS staff would like to thank Sandy for sharing her story with the NWHS community!

Want to share your own story with NWHS? Fill in our Reader Story Submission Form if you need inspiration, or simply write about the time you've spent with an equine companion and send it to editor@nwhorsesource.com.