Heart of a Horsewoman

I spend one day every week volunteering out at Hearts and Horses. It's an organization in Loveland that does therapeutic riding. They work a lot with disabled children, but also with veterans, troubled youth, and children who have lost parents. On the side they board some horses and teach regular riding classes. It's a really neat place and I am glad to be a part of it. Right now I just muck stalls and the attached runs. I imagine at some point or another I will be cleaning out paddock areas as well. I have to say, it's hard work! It's been a long time since I have done anything like it. I come home sore, with dirt in my lungs, nose, mouth, eyes, and clothes, I reek of horses and barn dust, but I am SO happy! I love being around the horses. I haven't gotten comfortable with the people yet, but most of them seem nice enough. When I am more comfortable, I suppose I will take some more of their required classes and work with people. Maybe. As it is, I will do just about anything if it means I get to be near horses.

 

This is the sign. They can never have enough volunteers! You are always welcome to come help me muck stalls! No? Alright...

This guy's name is Tem (or Temple) and he is young and still being trained. I took a picture because I think he is the very first Gypsy Vanner I have seen in person. He is very pretty. I love the feathers on his feet. However, I imagined these guys to be bigger...

This is Gavin (silly name, I know), but he was my buddy this week when I was cleaning the stalls and runs. He's sweet :)

 This little guy is Simba. He is some sort of pony and he is adorable! Yes, he is a therapy horse, er, pony. For a pony, he is very mild-mannered, but he seemed to be wary of my manure rake so he didn't want to get too close to me. He has the cutest ears!

Overall, a very satisfying experience! I look forward to being out there more. And to being buff, 'cause mucking stalls and sweeping barns is a great workout!

"You can say anything you want about me. I'm gonna have to ask you not to talk about my horse that way." ~Hidalgo  ;)