Horse Training Advice from Corky

by Kristina
(Ontario, Canada)

It's never too late for a ride!

You're never too old to try something new!

Here is a picture of our 81 year young Mom sitting happily on her grand daughter Stephanie’s horse Corky both of whom are her favourites.

Until very recently, Mom was afraid of horses even though her father, our grandfather, bred Polish Arabians. She was sent to live in the city with her aunt and uncle at the age of 5 so she didn’t really have an opportunity to experience country life to the fullest. She sure has come around now. She loves being with our horses and is like the pied piper. They follow her around while she sings and chats to them. They must respond to the fact that she has no agenda but to be with them. Alicia (my sister) finally convinced Mom that she hasn’t lived until she has been on a horse and gone for a ride so low and behold Mom was up to the challenge. This made for a picture perfect moment.

Mom stayed at the farm for two weeks recently when the caretaker was away and gave the horses their medications. Now that she is back home, (she lives about a 15 minute drive from the farm), she comes over whenever she can, at least every other day (when the weather is good) to continue giving them their meds. When she first started, Corky would bang on the gate with impatience, (the meds are mixed with grated carrots so the guys look forward to getting them.) Mom has managed to get him to stand quietly and wait. Quite an accomplishment!

Mom misses being with the horses and can’t wait until Christmas when she’ll be staying at the farm again for a few weeks. In the mornings she’s the first one at the barn, usually 7:00 a.m. No one can beat her at mucking out!

Our Mom is an amazing woman. She has been through a lot in her 81 years and is a true testament to love, faith and resilience.

With love, Kristina, Alicia and Steph