That's what I've been experiencing since Saturday night. That night I attended a Christmas party for the ladies of our church. The hostess is one of Rick's clients and we've talked about getting together for a trail ride over the years, but we're both moms and have never made the time. As I was getting ready to leave, I asked casually, "So, do you still have horses?" She confirmed that she did, but none that she can ride. Two are boarders, and two are 30-year-old pensioners. I commiserated, and she told me of her experiences trying to find a suitable horse for her needs - a safe, well-trained trail horse for herself and a safe, well-trained horse who can occasionally give kids rides in the arena. As she talked, I realized with crystal clarity that she needs RUSSELL! So I asked two questions: would she be interested in giving him a home, and would she give him a forever home? With affirmative answers, my spirit soared.
Its flight lasted about as long as the Wright brothers' epic success 108 years ago. Then I seized up with the thought of letting Russell go. My head told me it was the best thing for both of us, but my heart started back-pedaling, then went into mourning.
As always, my head prevailed. This lady has the facilities (bigger acreage and barn; indoor arena) and means (she and her husband are both physicians) to care for my horse for the rest of his life, and needs a good boy like him for light riding. She is happy to sign a contract giving me first right of refusal in any unforeseen event that she can no longer keep him. Finding the perfect home for Russell - like this one - has been the elusive prerequisite to my getting any future dressage partner. I don't have one lined up, but with a stall vacant, I can act when the right one comes along.
She is going to come meet him the week before or after Christmas. That means Russell and I still have a few slow dances left....
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5 comments:
I'm proud of you... And I still love you lots! This is a perfect home for Russell, and maybe this will open the door for your next partner...
Sounds like the perfect home for him. Still will be very hard, but knowing he will be used for what he can do now is well worth the heartaches that will always be their. Good luck.
Sometimes it's hard to let go, even when you know it's the right thing... and in this case, it sounds ideal for Russell!
This is bittersweet for sure . . . I think it means a sore heart for you for awhile - but whatever choice is made after she visits with Russell, you will know you have done the right thing.
Oh Michelle, my heart goes out to you completely. I know how hard it is to let go and cut those special ties we share with a good horse. Lucky Russell for you to have found such a great home for him. I hope it works out and I love that she has two 30 year old pensioners
too. :)
Big hugs and enjoy those dances left, the weather gods
have a few more days at least for you two in store.
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