Worth Their Weight

It's been fairly quiet at the Sanctuary lately (knock on wood). We are enjoying the last warm day before another cold spell sets in. Mike is headed to Madison tonight to bring home the snowplow before the cold front and snow comes.


Sometimes Sanctuary life gets a little boring, especially during the winter months when we're all cooped up inside or trying to stay warm outside. I know before we know it, summer will be here and there will be lots of fun activities and adventures to go on. The horses will enjoy the warmer weather and the green pastures.


I sometimes get caught up in all the hubbub with social media and trying to get our name out there. But I need to remember what's really important...the horses.  I went out to check on them this afternoon (yay for getting to work from home at the paying job!). It was nice to see everyone so relaxed and happy.


When I called to Jim, he pulled his head out of the bale and walked up to get his grain. It's nice that we all have a routine and are comfortable with each other. I mean, you gotta be comfortable with someone if you're willing to fart in their face (btw, it's Jim who does that to me...every time he sees me....every. time!)


The other day we had to put hay in. All I had to do was open a gate and they all walked in when I told the boys to help. Years ago, I doubt that would have happened. In fact, I was able to stop Bo, and tell him he needed to go to the barn rather than go into the pen (it would have stressed him out). And he did just that. It's not like I speak horse and it's not like they speak English. But it was fascinating to see how they handled what I asked. All 10 of them in the big pen knew what I was asking for and obliged.


I'm fascinated by how willing the Sanctuary horses are to do what I ask them. I forget how much trust they have in me and it's rather humbling. It really says a lot about age and wisdom.


Old horses are worth their weight in gold.