This message is from: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Hi,
That was a real tear jerker, Pamela. It especially touched me because I have one of those very special 'old ones'. Our gramma horse, Molde (don't laugh. It is a town in Norway), is 26 years young. She is King Herald bred and possesses those huge eyes that that bloodline is noted for. We bought her when she was 13 years old. She has been a treasure to us ever since. I have had several people offer to 'take her off of our hands' because of her age. I have politely declined the offers 'because of love'. I have stopped breeding her, not because she is a bad mom, but because I decided that she had done enough for us and didn't want to kill her because I selfishly wanted one more baby from her. She has had quite a few foals already and does love her babies. She is showing her age these days, a bit long in the tooth and low in the back, but still has a twinkle in her eye. Her hair doesn't shed very well anymore and she recently began dropping weight for no apparent reason so I had blood pulled to check for Cushings and anything else that might be going on. Everything was fine. I put her on daily wormer, changed her diet, and had an equine dentist do her teeth. Our regular vet comes once a year to take care of all of our horse's teeth, but this time we opted for a 'professional dentist'. She is starting to look good again. I have used her for many, many riding lessons. She has taught a lot of folks about 'love' with her warm, snuggly muzzle. One of my boarders is a single mom with a 9 year old red headed daughter. The KEY here is red head, and all that goes with that! A very head strong child. After observing a couple of 'incidents' with this little girl, I began formulating a plan and once again gave Molde a 'job' to do - teach this little girl about life and love. I talked to her mom about the little girl leasing Molde, but my contract had lots of strings attached regarding responsibility and behavior. Nobless oblige - with privilege comes responsibility. I am a very strong supporter of TOUGH LOVE even though that is not always the easier path to take! It has been several months now since this little girl signed her official contract to lease Molde. The road has not been without 'potholes', but it gives me goosebumps to see this child developing into a nice young lady. Molde is doing another fine job! I was watching Molde the other day when the little girl came with her mom. The little girl did not earn her privileges with Molde this month so has not been allowed to ride her. Molde's head came up when she saw the little girl and her eyes began to sparkle! I think Molde must realize the responsibility she has to 'raise' yet one more child! Yes, indeed, this 'old one' shall spend the rest of her days in our barn and we will pamper her until she draws her last breath. I will look forward to meeting her again someday at the other end of the Rainbow Bridge. Gayle Ware Field of Dreams Eugene, OR www.fjordhorse.com
