Not So Long Ago

Less than a year ago my only goal in life was to be with my horses.  I had plans, yes: my plans were to make a boatload of money so I could own a place with land and keep them, instead of having to drive fifteen minutes away anytime I just wanted to say hello. 

But then everything changed.  I joined band.  We practiced every day during school, three times a week afterward, and had competitions every Saturday, usually from early morning on Saturday (4 or 5ish) to early morning Sunday (1 or 2 AM).  On top of this, I was loaded with the homework that accompanies any kid that hopes to succeed in my school system, as well as football and basketball games that were mandatory for band members to attend. 

Suddenly, it's almost April, and I haven't been in a saddle since last July. 

Sometimes we make decisions, and we don't make these decisions because they're what we want, but we make them because they're what is best for our loved ones.  Through this hard winter, Missy lost a lot of weight.  She's nineteen years old; too old to be putting off weight.  I hardly got to see her at all.  Now, I'm terrified to see my aunt, because I know when I see here, she'll try to make me sell Molly.  But I'm not ready for that yet. 

However, I am ready for this.  Missy is my horse.  It's my job to take care of her.  Even if caring about her means letting her go. 

We recently got in contact with the people who bought Belle and asked them to take her for free.  Though they don't live close by, they have been pretty good about keeping us updated on the status of Belle, and they keep their animals for life.  An ideal home for Missy with a money-making man, a stay-at home woman, and three awesome little kids that love horses as much as I do.  I just pray that they'll accept her so we don't have to go through all the Craigslist mess. 

I can only hope that one day, when I have kids, I'll be able to make all their wishes come true in the way that my parents couldn't.  I don't blame them for this, though.  My journey with horses has been an excellent one and I'm sure it's not over yet.  It's just taking another twist.