Sunday, July 18, 2010

A Good Ride

The horse blogging community is just an amazing bunch of people. To all those folks, old friends and new, who took the time to stop by my page and share your kind words of care and concern, I say, "Thank you, from the bottom of my heart". You have helped me face this and move through it.

Surprisingly, I feel okay today. I guess you could say I feel "lighter" as if the huge burden of Rugby's health and comfort has been taken from me. It really was for the best to give him into the hands of God and let him be at peace.

My friend at the barn who owns the old horse that Rugby just adored has several lesson horses there. She graciously offered one of her lesson horses, Petey for me to ride. And this morning I decided I would get back out and do it. So I went to the barn this afternoon and my friends were just thrilled to see me again and so soon. Those who were there yesterday when Rugby was put to sleep told me it was the most peaceful, quick and gentle passing I could have hoped for. I was glad to hear he looked comfortable and quiet and everyone gave him a little extra attention throughout the day. My heart felt even lighter at this news.

So I went to meet Petey and saddled up. And as I eased into the tack and walked off on a loose rein I felt such joy. I was RIDING! Riding an old show horse who enjoyed my skill and rewarded me with a lovely walk/trot hack for a half hour. It was blazingly hot and I kept it short as Petey is not exactly fit. Then I hosed him down to cool him off, allowed him to nibble on some grass for 5 minutes and put him away. He turned and gave me an inquisitive look and slobbered on my shirt. Ah, horse slobber! I thanked this old campaigner with a few treats from my arsenal and sat in a chair outside his stall for awhile with just his stall chain across so he could hang out with me, and that's just what he did.

Life is hard, but happiness is out there. There is a world full of horses, and a new journey waiting for me to begin when I am ready.

13 comments:

Anonymous said...

The people at your barn sound like a fine bunch. That was a good way to spend your day, and to honor your boy.

Mrs. Mom said...

YOU GO GIRL!

Amen Petey.

Thinking of you still in our little corner, and waiting to hear of new adventures from you!

Jean said...

Riding might well have been the best therapy you could have found.

I am happy to hear you were able to find peace with your decision. As I said before, you were the one God chose to take care of Rugby in his last days and you shouldered the burden with every ounce of love and dedication you had in your heart. No horse could have had a better master.

Unknown said...

I'm so glad you rode. So very, very glad.

Paige said...

Sounds like the best way to enjoy starting over.

Im sure Rugby would be thrilled for you

Grey Horse Matters said...

Your friends at the barn sound very nice. I'm glad you heard from them how Rugby spent his last minutes and that he went to sleep peacefully. It's good you got out there and rode, perhaps this was the best thing you could have done to ease your sadness.

Once Upon an Equine said...

There is a wonderfully strong spirit about this post. I don't know you, other than from your blog, but I think there will be another very good horse in your future. I'm so glad you found hope, peace, and pleasure in the company of your friend's horse. Sounds like a great group of people at your barn who will help you heal and encourage you in the future.

Rachel said...

amazing.

Oregon Equestrian said...

Glad you've found peace with letting go and that you were able to get back in the saddle.

I still miss my mare. She gave me more than I ever deserved. I was blessed to be part of her life for 26 of her 28 years.

They really do leave hoof prints on our hearts.

Brooke (FBX Adventures - In Parenting) said...

I'm horrible, I just NOW found out that you lost Rugby! I'm so, so, so sorry, but I admire your bravery to get right back out there! Rugby was a lucky, lucky boy to have you as a mom and now he's not in any pain! Thinking of you!!!

Kristen Eleni Shellenbarger said...

I'm so proud of your strength. You made the best decision for Rugby and yes, you have a life to now live and enjoy, guilt free.

Carol said...

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your handsome boy. Just now reading your posts and all you have been through has brought tears to my eyes.
It sounds like Rugby could not have had a better home or a kinder people caring for him in his final days. A peaceful passing is truly all that any of us could ask for for our best friends. I hope that when Grif's time has come, that I will be as strong as you have been.
My heart goes out to you and your boys and when the time is right, another horse who is in need of a loving home will step into your life.
Sending lots of huggs your way :-)

Laughing Orca Ranch said...

Sounds like Rugby is still watching out for you.

God Bless Petey for being there for you after the loss of Rugby.

You have such a good outlook on life and this will help you be able to move forward and have much joy. I'm very happy for you.


~Lisa