In Memory of "Winnie"

This one will stay on my wall. It's good to remember.

Memories

"Memories"

"Winnie"

I found out this past week that my first horse passed away. It was an strong mix of emotions when I found out. I said my goodbyes when I sold her many years ago, but to know that she doesn't roam a green field or open gates she shouldn't or weave in her stall anymore is a different kind of sad.

Winnie impacted me in so many ways. She helped me grow up. She inspired my love of horse training and showed me I could actually succeed in it. She came to me barely rideable when I was 14 and totally unprepared for such a project. I remember crying in frustration that it wan't how I imagined, but also experienced some of my most memorable moments with her.

I went everywhere with that horse. All the dirt roads near my house have seen her. I jumped her over anything I thought we wouldn't break our neck on... I raced her with friend's horses (and could barely stop her). I fought through teaching her to load in a trailer and eventually succeeded. I road her in the lake bareback and occasionally I road on her backwards. I went to shows with her. I ground drove her and sat in the field reading while she ate dandelions. I even chased cows on her to the dismay of the very upset bovine owner....

She made her mark on me. She taught me to be patient; kind; to forgive and to deal with anger. She taught me that I could make situations better with a little hard work. She kept me looking ahead to the next thing I could learn. I have thought of her often over the years as other horses have come and gone and while raising my kids and still using the patience, kindness and resiliency she taught me all those years ago.

You never forget your first horse.

Back Home

8 X 10

The house I grew up in. It sure has some great angles to paint!