Lena and “Sweets” have come to live with us! I adore this photo of Cassidy hugging his new best friend (Sweets).
I’ve never had horse friends before. But last week our neighbor Dean asked if we would take his two mares for a few months to see how they liked it here. Back story: They’d lived on his property for four years, but he felt they needed more human companionship than he could give. And now with 3 kids and 3 adults fawning over them on Rosenfield Ranch, they get plenty of that!
I’ve only ridden horses a couple times in my entire life, and at 70 I probably won’t start. But the grandchildren have the riding bug for sure. And living where we live, there are plenty of friends around who will be happy to help them get started as equestrians come spring and warmer weather.
Meanwhile, these two 800 pound sweethearts with their soulful eyes and patient temperaments have captured our hearts. Even their tendency to roll in the mud after being currycombed seems somehow endearing. Of course I’m not the one to curry them, but the grand kids don’t seem to mind.
And a bonus…I don’t hear much complaining about being bored anymore. There are always horses to track down and pet. And tracking them down on 20 acres keeps the grand kids busy and outside. As a second bonus, they have to wear their cowboy boots around the horses. (These country kids are mostly shoe-less, even climbing hiking trails in bare feet. I kid you not!) So getting them into any kind of footwear has been a challenge.
Horsey Hugs and Gentle Words
Dean told us that Sweets liked to watch TV with him for hours, just for the company, and through a window.
We don’t have a TV, but we do have 6 animal loving people with plenty of horsey hugs and gentle words for them both. Even the cats seem calm and happy to be near them. Funny how life can change…and this is one of the happiest changes I’ve experienced in a while!
Your Animal Loving Artist,
Merry
I love that you gave these two sweet girls a home – and such a wonderful home full of all the attention and love they deserve. There is no sweeter bond than one with a horse. I have been blessed to have horses since I was 6 years old – all rescues. I am 52 now and have a rescued draft horse, a sweet Gypsy Vanner, who would climb in my lap if he did not weigh 1,800 lbs.! I rescued him at 5 months old before he went to auction. Due to my medical issues from Lyme Disease contracted 10 years ago, I had to cut back on rescues but all lived out their lives with me until they passed. Now with my dad’s help, Curly Joe is spoiled rotten at 17 and he gives my 86 year old father purpose and keeps him active. He shares a special bond with my father as well as with me since he thinks I am his mother. I hope your two horses bring you and your family as much joy as my horses brought/bring me! Thank you for giving them a second chance for a wonderful life!
Joy, what a beautiful story! I love that your dad is enjoying your horse as well. I’m sorry you have to deal with Lyme disease, but it is beautiful that you are so giving to these sweet animals. We love our horses, too! Have a happy holiday! – Merry
I love it. What a lovely new adventure for you all! ❤️
Definitely, Mary Elizabeth!
I’m envious, in a good way!! I still want to get a horse/mule one day…..you are living where I want to live…..ENJOY!!! By the way, how hot does it get where you live? When I retire, my husband and I are thinking of moving somewhere out in the wilderness, where it doesn’t get hotter than 80. So sick of this desert heat!
Hi Lisa, Well, New Mexico has a lot of variable weather. Where I live, in central NM, it gets above 80 in June, July and August. but cools down considerably in Sept. And we do have seasons for sure. Even when it’s hot in the day, the summer evenings are in the 50s. Check out Northern NM for cooler weather!
What a great story, Merry. Animals know our hearts better than we do sometimes. The connection is always special and lifelong. I love all animals but donkeys hold a very special place in my heart. Your new additions will teach you things you didn’t even realize you needed to know.
I think you are so right, Lori! I also love donkeys, so maybe one is in my future…
Dear Merry,
How wonderful it is to now have horses in your life! The mare I have is my best friend, and she listens to me without judgement. She was 3 yrs old when I got her, and she is now 28 ! Time with her has flown by. We have also had a miniature horse ( he passed last year) and we have a rescue pony we took in. Riding was always my biggest passion, but I am also 70, and don’t ride anymore. Good luck with your new best friends! I’m so happy for you !
Thank you, Deb! They are such a joy to have. Your life must be wonderful with so much horse love in your life! I may be late discovering this, but I am enjoying it completely.
A Horse’s outsides are good for our insides!!
I love that! And so true…
What a beautiful happening, send more photos!
Love, Betty
I shall, Betty! We are constantly taking horse photos, mostly with the kids whom they adore.
Congratulations on your new family additions!
Thank you, Gail! It is such a joy to have them in our lives.