Horsing Around

Some people love horses so much they are horse crazy. Fanatics. That describes two people I know and love...my friend Tonya, and my son Max. Tonya and I went to high school together, and she was a well established crazy horse fanatic even then. Our friendship has stood the test of time, and it is always a treat to spend time with her.


For nearly twenty years, Tonya has bred and raised Peruvian horses. Peruvians are a spectacular and fascinating breed. Originally bred to be traveling horses, they have a smooth and steady gait. Today, this trademark feature makes them a notable show horse breed, for they are graceful and entertaining in the ring. I credit Tonya with what little horse knowledge I possess, and I am increasingly grateful to her for indulging my son in his horse passion. She and Max have a special connection because their hearts both beat to the sound of pounding hooves. When we are at Tonya's, it is as if Max gets transported to a dream world...one where Tonya graciously lavishes him with information and instruction and sweetly saddles up a horse in the blistering afternoon sun so he can ride. Max soaks up every second of it, deliriously happy to be in his element.
Today's visit was extra special, because about ten hours before we arrived, one of Tonya's gorgeous mares, Mira, delivered a chestnut foal. Adorable. Simply adorable. A fuzzy red bag of bones. All legs and knees, with gorgeous shining eyes and a fuzzy mane and tail. Mira was very generous with us. We got to hug the baby and take lots of pictures.


Peruvians are spirited, so we learned that it is wise to "lunge" a horse before riding, which means allowing it to run on a lead in a circle around you. This is "Button", lunging by a Magnolia tree! :)

The boys listened intently while Tonya shared valuable tips and techniques about riding. You can tell she really loves sharing her talent, and Max hung on her every word!

After riding, Max helped put up all the equipment in the tack room, then he got to give Button a few treats and a bath. Did you know that horses have prehensile lips? They can delicately lift a treat from your hand with their velvety mouth, or, as Tonya pointed out, pick through their food bowl to eat around what they don't like! There's your horse trivia for the day.

Hayden shares some interest in horses too, and although he isn't a fanatic, he certainly got swept up in the excitement of the day. It is impossible not to be smitten when you are near Tonya's magnificent herd.

There are some days with my children when I just pray the Lord will allow the memory to live in my heart forever. Today was one of those days. The company of a few crazy fanatics, a sunny summer day, a newborn foal, and barn kittens for Hannah to hold. It was the stuff perfect memories are made of.