Life without horses?...I don't think so!

This I believe...

I believe that a nicker is equivalent to "I love you". That the smell of a stable can bring a horse owner close to tears. Not from the smell some people might consider an assault on their noses but the images of their best friends waiting eagerly for their dinner. The lives of these horse obsessed souls, and I say obsessed because there is no way to have a horse and be less than obsessed, went from your average Jane/Joe to someone who is never bored and has an inspiration in all things. Whether they are managing your time for the next week, creating a masterpiece on a canvas, or picking a new home all thoughts end on an equine companion. Their needs are suddenly your own and your life is never the same.

No matter how busy you are or how the whether is treating you, your horse is always waiting. Grooming them for ten glorious minutes or taking them out for a risky, adrenalin pumping trail ride is all it takes to clear your mind and take you to a better place. Also, they are never too busy too be with you. Your horse will never say "You know...I just don't feel like it right now...".

The change that having a horse has made on me is incomprehensible. I can't even begin to point out the many ways they inspire me and have shaped who I am today. I have had horses ever since I can remember and my earliest memories can easily be traced back to one of them. The memory of holding onto a saddle horn and having a cool barrier from sweltering August day around me as the wind blows through my hair can best place my earliest passion for these creatures. Now, even if I haven't had an opportunity to ride my faithful, reliable steed in a while, Apache is still there. He stands in anticipation as I groom him for an adventure he knows we are about to go on. As I groom him and hit all of his favorite scratchy spots he nods his head in approval and I continue working on his shoulders until he is satisfied. The surest sign I get that he is completely at ease is the drooping of his eyelids as he drifts to sleep while I'm putting his tack on. First the saddle pad, then the saddle followed by his bridal which gives us access to each others direction. As we head out of our yard and onto a new trail the excitement travels down his body and creates lift off in his legs, putting him into an awkward trot.

This is my best friend. My charismatic co conspirator. Mi amigo. Without his presence I would lose a part of myself. I am so thankful for all of his friendship and the precious time I am privileged to spend with him. Becouse of him, I believe in the heart of a horse. I believe his nicker means "I love you".

written by Skye Paterson