turning a page and giving thanks

by Sharon Santoni

horse in normandy, photo by james pouliot

I have to tell you that this post is written with tears in my eyes….. You may think me ridiculous… but I’ll take that risk.

This morning the last of our horses left our paddock and travelled to a new home where he will enjoy a retirement with another senior horse in acres of green pastures and gently swaying trees.

Three weeks ago our pony left for a new home too.  He is now with a young family and officially belongs to a little girl, and he gets brushed, fed with carrots and taken for country rides …. and I believe he even has the occasional pink ribbon in his hair.

Over the years we have had five horses in all, and these last two have been with us for the longest.

We took the decision to give away our horses for several reasons.   With my daughters no longer at home, there is very little riding done anymore, in fact the pony was up to his old tricks of escaping from his field again,  just because he was getting bored.   We were also about to lose the tenancy on the pastures that we have enjoyed for so many years ….

The time had come to turn a page and to be realistic about how little time I have to ride these days.

I cried ( a lot)  as each horse left us, because I wasn’t only saying goodbye to a beautiful animal who has been part of our family and our lives for so many years but also because this is the turning of a page.  There will be no more rides in the forest, no more galloping through the fields, no more cuddling that big strong neck, or sitting in a saddle and feeling the thrill of a horse responding to my  slightest movement.

But rather than having regrets, I am deeply grateful for the many many happy memories that they have left behind.  It’s been a  privilege to  keep our own horses just two minutes walk from our house, and one that I will never forget.

I don’t often share much personal stuff on this blog, but the story of our horses is intrinsically linked to my girls growing up.  Our horses were their constant companions, their confidants, their champions and their partners in crime.

So today, I am remembering some of these very happy moments that have filled our lives over the past years, and saying to anyone who is thinking about welcoming a pony into their family … go for it!     Your daily routine will need to expand to include feeding and checking on the horses; you will have additional expenses; you will need accommodation, a good blacksmith, and you may well get involved in early morning starts for competitions, but all of this will be worthwhile, because memories like these cannot be bought.

horse in normandy, photo by james pouliot

Thank you for listening to me today, there are things that need to be shared.

photos 1& 7 by James Pouliot

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75 comments

Tish Jett May 12, 2017 - 6:20 pm

Words fail. . .What a lovely recounting of your memories.

I understand how terribly, terribly sad you must feel. When we so love our animals and they are so important in our lives it makes a little crack in our hearts when we must let them go — for whatever reason. And yes, there’s that turning of the page — ever so difficult. . .

It’s never ridiculous to cry when we must part with creatures we love.

xoxo,
Tish

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Sharon Santoni May 12, 2017 - 6:34 pm

thank you my friend 🙂

xxx

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Donna D May 12, 2017 - 7:45 pm

Ditto…xx

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Corinne May 12, 2017 - 6:40 pm

Beautiful. I understand.

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Taste of France May 12, 2017 - 6:41 pm

How difficult that must be. Even though each stage of our lives have wonderful aspects, the parts that don’t continue tear our hearts apart, however much we expect and plan for them.

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Vicky from Athens May 12, 2017 - 6:43 pm

Oh Sharon, I’ve been there. These decisions are never arrived at easily and of course tears are shed. I have many happy memories of time spent with Kenny and Blue. And some frustrating memories, also! A huge quarter horse and a fat little blue roan pony.
Your photos are beautiful and so are those big gorgeous beasts.
As you so aptly called it … it’s turning a new page and after all, that is what makes up our book of life is made up of. Pages that need to/have to be turned.

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Vicky from Athens May 12, 2017 - 6:45 pm

Oops! Should’ve done some proofreading before I hit the “submit” key!

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Sharon Santoni May 12, 2017 - 7:55 pm

Thank you Vicky, I didn’t know that you were a horsewoman too! Another love that we share besides our gardens 🙂

wishing you a great weekend
Sharon

x

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david terry May 12, 2017 - 6:44 pm

What a lovely posting, Sharon……and what a perfect, first-response, Tish.

As I’ve previously remarked, Sharon?……..you do have nice folks for readers.

Sincerely,

David Terry……who, having discovered that one can mail-order those Flavigny candy-drops (ubiquitous if one happens to actually BE in France; I used to buy them at truck-stops), is thrilled to have just gotten a pound of them in the mail this morning……right on my porch-step. I’m assuming that the clever nuns of Flavigny have gotten beyond the business of handrolling each candy around its anise-seed center before sealing them in little, paper packets.

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Sharon Santoni May 12, 2017 - 7:56 pm

Yes David, you are so right, I do have wonderful readers, I am blessed 🙂

warmest wishes to you mon ami

Sharon

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Lorraine Wafer May 12, 2017 - 6:48 pm

My heart is with you Sharon, We am at present in France for a month again adventuring to places not seen before. We have left Dordogne…stayed for a week in Sarlat and heading gradually to Annecy. So tonight as I read your blog my heart is feeling for you. Memories sustain us all. Life has many paths. Such a sad day for you but new things lie ahead. I am hoping next trip to get to your little rental. Take care. Xx Lorraine

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Sharon Santoni May 12, 2017 - 7:58 pm

Hi Lorraine, have a wonderful trip, it sounds like a great itinerary:)
I’m afraid we do not rent our cottage any longer, but if you come this way I’d be happy to help you with alternative suggestions

best
Sharon
x

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Elaine Clark May 12, 2017 - 6:49 pm

How very sad for you, animals become such a big part of our lives and to see any go for whatever reason is always tinged with great loss and sadness especially as your horses were your daughters. At least you know they have gone to new owners who will love them as your family did I’m sure.

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Sharon Santoni May 12, 2017 - 7:59 pm

Yes Elaine , their new ‘families’ were carefully vetted, and many candidates refused !

x

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Amie from Dallas May 12, 2017 - 6:57 pm

What a beautiful story. Thank you for sharing something so personal. It takes courage and also wisdom to do what you did for your horses. Some people would hang onto them and selfishly deny the animals a better quality of life. I believe animals have souls like we do, and we do see them on the other side. A little crazy, but when I look into the eyes of some of my pets I know they are looking back into my soul too. Take comfort that you can always visit them in their new homes, and I am sure their new caretakers will love them enough to understand why you desire to see them again. Take care of yourself. Again, beautiful story!

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june May 12, 2017 - 6:57 pm

What a beautiful tribute to a special joy of your life. New seasons in life can be filled with so many memories of the past but heartache that hurts.

Hugs

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Lise-Lotte Loomer May 12, 2017 - 7:12 pm

And I read this with tears in my eyes…Thank you for sharing. I, too, am turning a page with our family life changing. In September, both my daughters will be away at university in Canada but three and four time zones away. I will no longer have 3 international students living with us. Lots of exciting possibilities, but also sadness at letting things go. I will go out now to load the car with things we don’t need any more to give to a church sale for others to find good use of.
As always, I love your blog. I hope you have a wonderful weekend. Lise-Lotte

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Sharon Santoni May 12, 2017 - 8:01 pm

It’s amazing isn’t it, how painful these new steps can be?! That’s why I’m concentrating so much on the positive memories 🙂

take care
x

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elizabeth@pineconesandacornsblog May 12, 2017 - 7:21 pm

What a beautifully written post. I could not agree with the above comments more. How wonderful that these beautiful horses had a home with you but that you loved them enough to let them go when you realized that you could not devote the time needed to them. I am sure they will have a wonderful life ahead.

Tears are never a bad thing by the way, the heal and cleanse the soul.

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Madonna May 12, 2017 - 7:29 pm

I am sympathizing with you today. It has been many years now since we became sans horse. Even after I sold off our horses it took me a while to sell my equipment and then to discard my boots. I knew it was over when I gave up my boots and saddle. We have many wonderful memories of Sunday trail rides. My children learned to ride on a little palomino pony. She was half pony and half Tennessee Walker, she was wonderfully patient, but the kids eventually outgrew/graduated to larger horses. It was time and she eventually taught other little girls to ride and I had to comfort myself with that thought.

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Sharon Santoni May 12, 2017 - 8:04 pm

Your story sounds much like ours Madonna, 🙂 the pleasure of seeing the children grow up and graduate from shetland, to pony to horse. I’m not ready yet to sell my saddle or boots though. The girls each have their saddles with them, and ride regularly , and I just keep the tack room in order… as if we were still going to ride tomorrow 🙁

x

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Kathie D. May 12, 2017 - 7:50 pm

I have done the same and am still sad when I think of my past, dear, companions. We’ll see them, again, I believe. Thanks for sharing.

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rachel May 12, 2017 - 7:54 pm

Beautiful story – we all love our animals and are sad when it is time to say goodbye…

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Victoria Savu May 12, 2017 - 8:38 pm

It is not ridiculous to cry over your loss. Whenever you lose something that you love it is painful and tears will flow. I was tearing up as I read your story just remembering my two beautiful horses that we gave to a young family that still had the ability to ride. I still miss them and at times I think I should go see them. But I don’t so the pain does not come back. Just two weeks ago my husband and I loss our wonderful Lab after almost 14 years. Heart breaking. Many tears. Remember your friends share your sadness but we also have lots of good memories. Take care.

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StitchinSweetSue May 12, 2017 - 8:39 pm

warm hugs to you sharon, it’s not easy to let loved ones go when they’ve brought years of joy to a family. you’ve made a brave decision and can look forward to those wonderful memories that will begin to fill the empty spaces left behind… xo

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Joanie Powell May 12, 2017 - 8:45 pm

Dear Sharon; our pets are intricately woven into the tapestries of our lives and as they depart, naturally or otherwise, their absence can sometime feel like the rest of our fabric may also unravel. Know that you are certainly not alone in your sentiments and that others like minded will help you shoulder the weight of their departure. You are so wise to concentrate on the wonderful memories. They will see you through this difficult time. Here’s to soothing your ❤️.

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Karen May 12, 2017 - 8:45 pm

Hi Sharon,
Karen here from Illinois.
My heart goes out to you. Remembering those memories will out live your sadness.
My daughter adopted an adorable yellow Lab. It was an impulsive thing and after realizing it was not a practical move and falling madly in love with this puppy, she decided it should go to a family with lots of space and time to care for this dog. My daughter works and has 2 dogs and a baby and husband to care for. So we said goodbye. …

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joie May 12, 2017 - 8:52 pm

Like you said, “they have been part of the family”. But think of it this way…..how unselfish you are being by giving them the chance to turn the page also. The pony will be adored by a young girl as it should…pink ribbons and all. And the older horse, well, he will be in the company of his own. So while this is hard you you, just think what you have given them.

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Barbe May 12, 2017 - 10:07 pm

Saying good bye to something or someone you love is never easy, regardless of what happy things the next chapter holds.

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Madge May 12, 2017 - 10:14 pm

Sharon, your thoughts today brought tears to my eyes, and I’ve never had a horse. Partings and change are part of every life in different ways. I admire your courage to make decisions that are best for your animal friends, looking back with gratitude and forward with brightness.

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Regina, Amado,Az. May 12, 2017 - 10:19 pm

Yes, I too have many wonderful horse memories with my children from pony finals in Virginia to Madison Square Garden! Now, children all grown up but still have a few horses and ponies in the pasture to look at through my windows. Have turned my love of horses to my garden and weddings here.

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Pat May 12, 2017 - 10:36 pm

I kept a horse for a year 40 years ago and loved that horse. 15 years later I was at a trail ride and spotted the horse who began braying and nuzzling me, she remembered me to my amazement…your story brings tears to my eyes as well…I think horses are highly evolved animals and very spiritual. I feel blessed to have know this one as I am know you feel about your horses.

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Sandra @ Maison De Jardin May 12, 2017 - 10:37 pm

Beautiful post and I so understand your feelings. I have been there. Saying goodbye, even if it is the right thing to do, can be dreadful.

Take comfort in your decision, made out of love.

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Cecilia May 12, 2017 - 10:41 pm

Sharon, I understand your tears. I too have owned horses for many years, and still hold on to one. I just can’t seem to be able to let go. They bring such joy! Even the small duties like grooming bring peace to my soul. Thank you for sharing.

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Renee Thompson May 12, 2017 - 10:42 pm

You touched my heart Sharon. They are beautiful creatures. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I know you have placed them where they will be loved.
On another note, I loved your two precious dogs during our stay in your beautiful guest house. They are so adorable.

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Maggie Dowling May 12, 2017 - 10:42 pm

Saying goodbye to our four legged friends,and family members is always sad. Be that are big or small they share our lives with us. Be sad, but being happy for their new lives is what live is all about.

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nadie May 12, 2017 - 10:55 pm

a beautiful story, sad but beautiful.
a new life is coming now.
with all my friendship from France.

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Our French Oasis May 12, 2017 - 11:12 pm

Oh, how I feel for you. Our children all grew up with ponies, the wonderful memories, but as they grew up so the riding became less. When we moved to France we took the decision not to have ponies any longer, no one was riding anymore. Occasionally the children ride elsewhere, I miss the daily routine, I miss my horses desperately, it is the first time in my entire life, since before I could walk, that’s four decades, that I have not had a horse or pony. But we move on, things change. I would have cried too, your photos alone brought tears to my eyes. Big hugs xx

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Terri Smith May 12, 2017 - 11:19 pm

Sharon,
Oh how my heart feels for you. Animal lovers know that our “furry” chidren are such an important part of our lives and it is so difficult to let go for whatever reason. May you find peace and solace with your sweet and beautiful memories.

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Steven May 12, 2017 - 11:51 pm

Growing up my maternal grandparents had a farm populated with pretty much every type of domestic animal a kid could hope to encounter. Many were pets, although the occasional chicken or hog paid the ultimate sacrifice. I had a beautiful black Welsh pony named Rebel. Each of the cousins had an equine companion they could claim as their own – mostly Shetlands for the smaller kids, quarter horses for the older ones – so there was quite a herd at one point. I know it sounds idyllic. In truth it probably was. Two of my girl cousins were barrel racers (we’re in the Deep South) and are still accomplished horse women. Sadly (perhaps) my two daughters have grown up as city girls (Atlanta) – they go outside primarily to get into a car – neither has ridden a horse except at summer camp or at a fair where they were led around a track by a guide. I look at the pictures you post and read the narratives and am content to know you realize and appreciate the blessings that surround you. Today’s post especially speaks to that. As I write this CNN is on our television raking over the turmoil du jour in our new administration. Thank you very much for the calm and beauty you share. It is appreciated. I would argue it is needed.

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Julie S May 13, 2017 - 12:08 am

You have my sympathy Sharon. Our horses, along with our dogs and cats, are members of our extended family. It is never easy to say goodbye, and I could feel my tears welling up for you. The good thing is that you know that they have gone on to good homes where they will be as loved and cherished as they were with you. Perhaps in time when emotions are not as raw you will be able to visit them.

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Nikki May 13, 2017 - 1:15 am

Oh Sharon, 6 days ago I was in your very shoes..I delivered my 18 year old mare to a young family for the very same reasons as you listed. As I drove the last country mile with my dear old friend riding behind in the trailer, my heart was so heavy.
Pulling in the lane we were greeted by an excited family of 4 young children waiting for their new horse. At that moment I knew we were making the right choice.
Some days I’m still shocked by the empty nest and the approaching autumn years! Thank you for sharing your story❤️

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sharon santoni May 14, 2017 - 10:12 am

thank you Nikki, I’m so glad I’m not alone in this adventure 🙂

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Avril May 13, 2017 - 1:40 am

I echo all the above comments take comfort knowing they loved and taken care off.

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Leslie in Oregon May 13, 2017 - 1:41 am

Your tears evidence your love for the wonderful creatures that have been part of your family. I think that I under- stand how you are feeling. (We are facing the impending death of Henry, our beloved 14-year-old Golden Retriever. I am very glad for every moment we have had with him, very sad that he is dying, and taking every opportunity to show him my love for him.) What are/were the names of your beautiful horses? Your family was very fortunate to have them in your lives, and they were very fortunate to have your family in theirs. Yours in fullness of heart, Leslie

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Carole J May 13, 2017 - 2:10 am

Sharon, it’s good you shared these beautiful memories of your horses with us readers. I hear your heart, the sadness in their leaving and how very special these horses were. Pets, whether large or small become intertwined in our lives and become part of the family.
You cared for them, loved them, and that was truly a gift the time and memories you and your family had with these magnificent creatures.

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Colleen Taylor May 13, 2017 - 2:13 am

I understand what this is like having grown up with horses of my own Sharon. It does create a definite & large void. These are choices that are so difficult but necessary in life. My heart is with you. X

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Dianne May 13, 2017 - 2:14 am

beautiful I understand how hard this is …But by moving forward you allow yourself and your horses a new chapter in life xxx Love ALL your posts

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Denise May 13, 2017 - 3:13 am

Sharon my heart goes out to you. I also have wonderful memories of horses I own Little Bit and Renaldo . Mine pass on but I think of them often and the love and memories we shared. What a wonderful story you shared with us .
Love all that you share with us.

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Judy Bales May 13, 2017 - 4:43 am

Thank you for sharing your heart today. I cried along with you!

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Kathryn Gauci May 13, 2017 - 5:36 am

I can imagine just how terrible you feel.
All those happy memories.

But you have to be thankful that at least you have shared wonderful times with the horses and family and that is something to be cherished.
Its always an emotional time to move from one stage in life to another.
Even so, thoughts are with you at this moment.
The horses have gone to a good home. That’s the important thing.

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Blanca Martinez May 13, 2017 - 5:50 am

Dear Sharon,
I also cried with you.
I never had a horse but I’m a animal lover. I always had cats and they have their time in earth designated by God, it’s painful to let them go because we love them, but we should accept when is time to let them go, end be in peace knowing that you happily took good care of them with love and compassion. You did your best, so don’t carry any burden, yes you will cry for a while, is normal, but peace will come.
I send you a big hug.
As I Write my cat Muffin is on my feet.
Sincerely, Blanca

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Elvie May 13, 2017 - 6:12 am

Reading your story your horses leaving made me so sad I felt like crying as I am a softy with animals .Be strong and think they will be happy in there new home with other horses .Best wishes and remember all the Loverly times spent with them

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Kelly Dodson May 13, 2017 - 7:14 am

Sharon, I think you’ve handled this transition in a very graceful and very thoughtful way. What a wonderful thing, to share them with other families who will have just as much enjoyment from having them in their lives as you and your family did. What a great lady you are!

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Nancy Schlossbach May 13, 2017 - 2:02 pm

To paraphrase a wiser someone’s thoughts: “You’ve opened and closed a door..” In my own life I have found that this makes space for something new and equally as meaningful.

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Susan B. May 13, 2017 - 2:02 pm

Sharon, my heart feels for you. It’s been decades since I’ve had horses, and I still miss them. There’s just something special about that bond.

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Jane Casnellie May 13, 2017 - 3:47 pm

It is bitter sweet that I read your post today since yesterday I learned my dear horse who is 28 years young is now having difficulty getting up off the ground, his rear legs are giving out…..hopefully with the help of meds we can extend his life a little more so we can spend time together. I too remember those beautiful rides in the countryside alone in the woods together, all the times he has listened to me and nuzzled my neck and whinnied upon my arrival. So hopefuly I will have more time to enjoy him for a while at least. I understand your sadness and pain but the beauty and warmth our horses bring to our lives is worth the pain of saying goodbye. Like you I grew up in England where the sound of horses hooves on the village pavement echoed through the air, then moved to Spain and now the US is my home. Credit Line is my first and will be my last horse but the legacy of the love and wonderful memories we shared over twenty years will remain with me forever. Thank you for your timely and beautiful personal post.

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Julie S May 13, 2017 - 7:43 pm

I understand completely how you feel about your horse. My mare is an old lady of 33. She sometimes has stiffness and difficulty getting up after a good roll in the field. I don’t know if it would be of benefit to your lad, but something I have found that helps her is to massage her hind quarters. I use a solid rubber ball, about the size of a tennis ball, and put my whole weight behind it on the large muscles either side her tail. By rolling the ball about on these muscles you can give a really deep massage. I’m just thinking it may be of some help to you, alongside the meds?

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Nina Singh May 13, 2017 - 4:07 pm

Oh Sharon,what a sweet and touching post and what gorgeous and magnificient animals your horses are.Thank you for sharing your story.
Nina

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Teddee Grace May 13, 2017 - 9:31 pm

So glad they have found good homes and that you didn’t have to experience putting them down.

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Dana Veach May 14, 2017 - 5:03 am

Thank you for sharing so deeply from a heart that I know was breaking. I’ve been privileged to love and be loved by horses and dogs (and a couple of cats)for nearly all of my 69 years on this earth. Most recently, I lost my senior male Great Pyrenees/Anatolian Shepherd cross Livestock Guardian Dog,Pongo,in a tragic accident. His death leaves an aching twist in my heart. When I was 17, I lost the first great love of my life, a beautiful sorrel Quarter Horse mare. The bond between us was so great that I actually sat up in bed in the middle of the night the moment she died, knowing that I had lost something precious. I found out about her death the next morning. I’ve also had to make decisions such as yours to let an animal go to a new home, knowing that it would be in their best interest. One way or another, we are parting with intelligent creatures who have given us the best of their hearts. I believe that they are gifts from God to teach us what His unconditional love looks like. I pray you will find comfort, Sharon, in knowing that you have respected their dignity by giving them a richer life and a chance for new loves. Thank you for being one who cares.

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Julia May 14, 2017 - 11:07 am

Absolutely understand…
I expect many have said this but, do not be sad for what is ending, smile that it was once yours 🙂

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Valorie May 14, 2017 - 6:06 pm

So beautiful! What lucky horses they are to have had your home and now they begin a new chapter in their best interests. I struggle with this daily as I get out to be with my horses less and less often but I have not been able to make the decision. I’m forcing myself to spend more time with them, I hope it’s the right thing to do. I have my Mom to thank for saying yes when we my sister and I wanted a horse. She had no experience at all with them, but she was all in. An amazing Mom. She figured out how to haul a horse trailer and how to load horses in the middle of the night in bad storms to help our friends who did not have a trailer. She did it all. I love you Mom, thank you. I lost my Mom August 28, 2016 to Alzheimer’s disease. So damn unfair. Tears here as well. xx

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Valorie May 15, 2017 - 6:55 am

I came back to add one additional note! I hope your girls realize how very lucky they are to have a Mom like you and the home they had to grow up in. I’m sure they do; if they don’t one day, they will. I did not appreciate my Mom as I should have when I was younger. She was absolutely amazing and I took her for granted. One day I’m sure your girls will look back with absolute amazement at the childhood home they had and how blessed they were with such a beautiful Mom. If you can hold on to your boots and saddle, I would. Someone in your family will cherish them one day. Happy Mother’s Day. xx

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Jeanne May 15, 2017 - 10:05 am

Dear Sharon I read your post this morning and of course, being a horse lover, country person and mother myself,I cried. The turning the page is inevitable and I have been known to declare as much as I absolutely love my boys growing up and the person that they are with each stage, I am also always a mother in mourning. Each little child they have been, is gone. We have already buried 3 horses on our farm who lived with us to old age; no manner of parting is easier, I don’t think. In the final years of our last horse’s retirement my 11 year old son bought a mini pony that arrived pregnant and had a foal – that was 7 years ago – and the 3 of them made an odd but lovely sight on the farm. They were very upset when Harvey was no longer with them. I can recommend mini’s because they smell and sound like horses but are smaller and easier to keep – like living ornaments. They are mischievous and love nothing more than getting into our big garden, when they gallop around having fun. They provide me with so much pleasure and compensation. My son who is now 18 spoils them when he comes home from university.

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noreen May 15, 2017 - 1:24 pm

Sharon, you have penned such a beautiful tribute to these precious horses, who gave your family so much love and memories. We all turn a page when a beloved pet leaves the fold. Wishing their new owners many happy years together!

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Jo-De Davis May 17, 2017 - 3:44 am

My heart is so heavy with sadness for you, Sharon, as I have defined much of your (French country) home with pictures of the horses grazing and being ridden and hanging with the pups. What a courageous way to interpret this transition in remembering the wonderful times you and the children enjoyed their companionship, as well as their just being.

I grew up with horses (work with rescues now), but it was always sad when we would say good-bye to an old friend. When I was around 13, I came home from school and found my very favorite horse (EVER!) gone. He had foundered and I knew he was sick, but I had no idea they were going to get rid of him. To this day, I have no idea what happened to him. Neither one of my parents would ever say. And 54 years later, tonight, as I write this, the tears of sadness glisten my eyes and my throat is choked up because I will never know what happened to him. I am glad you found great homes for all and they will adjust better than anyone in your (human) family will. Sending you prayers of peace and serenity, and wishing you the very best as you continue your journey enriching our (your viewers’) lives by allowing us to join yours.

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Valorie February 6, 2018 - 4:11 pm

Jo-De~ That is so sad that you were not told what happened to your horse! I can’t imagine doing that to a 13 year old girl. 🙁 I would like to think he was kindly put to rest; but you should have been told. God Bless you, I can only imagine what a burden this is for you.

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Andrina Treadgold May 25, 2017 - 6:32 am

Sharon, this is the third time I have read this post and now feel I can comment without having floods of tears.
I too grew up with horses, they were such an integral part of my childhood (10-22 years).
The special memories that you share with your horse daily are so hard to describe but you have said it all so perfectly.
My mother sold my pony when I was in Europe at age 25 and I’ve never gotten over not saying goodbye to my beautiful friend and partner in crime. Thank you for sharing this heartfelt moment in your life. Andrina xx

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Marian from England May 29, 2017 - 5:48 pm

Not silly to be so sad at saying goodbye to your beautiful horses. Any animal we spend so much time caring for is more than just a pet, it’s part of the family and who you are. Even saying goodbye to our little cat who we’d had for 16 years, bought tears to the eyes of 3 grown men and 2 women! I have friends who are horsewomen and I know the huge commitment you make having your own, so understand how sad it is to let go, but you are doing the right thing for the horses and that’s the most important thing. Turn the page and enjoy a new chapter!

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Cyndy from the US August 5, 2017 - 2:23 pm

Sharon,
Thank you for sharing this experience while you grieve the loss of not only the selfless love of such beautiful animals, but a way of life as well.
I recently discovered your blog and was comforted to know that I was not alone. You see, I recently had to say good bye to my own mare, a horse that we brought to our home after rescuing her over 20years ago. She taught us many things over the years from patience to courage. We were there with her at the end and lucky enough to be able to have her resting place nearby. The companion mare that we also rescued, is not long for this world as well. She also has been having problems like Jane’s horse and I have been told to make her as comfortable as I can for the summer but expect to be saying good bye very soon. I cry everyday realizing that the end is near and I also will be turning the page. My children are all grown as well and I know that it will be time for me to move on. As painful as this time has been, I thank you for your courage to share and I find the strength in your words and photos. I hope to take comfort in my own memories as well and know that I too have had the experience of learning life’s lessons that only a horse can teach. Thank you..

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Melissa October 6, 2017 - 2:40 am

Just read this post I have not visited this site for a while, and the Irony, I have two horses in my yard now, my daughters old pony we put in the the ground last year, but she still rides. My daughter has started ridng my warmblood mareand she is doing so well now I ride the large pony. She does love them she wants to take them to college, (not likely). I was much the same I had horses all my life, my husband knew the horse would be shipped from coast to coast as we moved around the US when he was in the Military. I feed every day , I see there Eyes, deep pools of power and speed and love and humor. I hope to have them forever, ANy time you need a fix don’t think of pushing it aside go ride a horse!!

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Valorie February 6, 2018 - 4:17 pm

It’s nearly nine months after you posted this; I read it again and cried. I wondered if you’ve had a chance to visit this dear old horse. He has such a lovely face and soul-full eyes. I’m sure he’s enjoying his pasture and friend. <3

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Suzanne D. Grable February 6, 2018 - 5:45 pm

I am late reading this and I completely understand your feelings. I grew up in the horse business and showed. Also, my father was a well known over the world for his craftsmanship of fine harness making. People still try to find it even used pieces. It brings my memory to mind when my dad sold our first show pony. His everyday name was Tony & show name was Gay Parader (a name that would not be good today because I once tried it as a password and the results were bad for me). For days before Tony was supposed to be picked up I thought that I could change my dad’s mind and I would write in the sawdust and beg him to not sell. I was so sad and that was when I was somewhere around 12 and now I am 71 and I still think about it. So I well understand tears and feelings on the loss. I am an interior designer in Kentucky. Have the best day.

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Janeintherain September 15, 2019 - 4:08 am

You have a gift for well chosen words assembled to describe these important and poignant moments in our lives. They bring us together to share your experiences with you.
Thank you

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