My Happy Place

I was feeding the horses this morning. It's a beautiful day here in Colorado - sunny, which makes it warmer outside, and little to no wind (we live in an area called Windy Hill, so little to no wind = a big treat). 

I realized something.

The barn is a happy place for me.

The Barn. Easy to walk down, not so great for walking up (especially when it's windy).

I don't need to be riding, which is a good thing, since I don't really ride any more - notice I didn't say I don't ride anymore, but that I don't really - which means I might get on at some point, but don't hold your breath (although I would like to ride Fell Pony extraordinaire, Willa, at some point). I still have two saddles, because giving them up would mean I don't ride any more. I was never a very bold rider. Some people can't stay out of the saddle, and I applaud them. From the ground. Where I feel safe.

I've always felt safer on the ground around my horses than in the saddle. I-can't-stay-off-my-horse riders always look at me like I have three heads when I say that, because they feel safer in the saddle. To each his own safety.  

There is something, however, about being around horses that is soul satisfying to me. They are magnificent animals. They seem to know things. And they don't let you get away with anything, especially if it means a lessening of their safety. Safety/comfort are job one with horses - everything else, including food, is gravy. 

LiLi gets a belly scratch and some loving from a couple of friends.

So today I took my time doing the feeding, talking to each of the horses, and observing their myriad personalities. I could feel the tension leave my body. My breathing got deeper. I felt like it is going to be a fantastic day. It was awesome.

We have five horses, and each one is different. If you closely observe your dogs, cats, and hamsters, you'll see that each one is a little different. Some are anxious; some are calmness personified. Some are needy (Ry).

Take time to truly hang with your animal friends, and get to know them at a whole new level. They love it, and it's good for all parts of a human.

Are they your happy place?

By the way, if you want to spend some time with our horses and give yourself a break from the world craziness, consider Pipes and Ponies, a 2-1/2 day retreat my friend Annette and I are doing here at the Farm in June 2025. Right now until New Year's is a special early bird price. There's only space for 8 women. Room and food included. Here's a link for more info:

https://www.harmonysheartcoaching.com/pipes-and-ponies-weekend-retreat-june-2025