Full circle

Now I am back on a path that formerly I trod with Doru. Escorting a young horse out with his rider.

Evening rides are not quite over for the year, though the shorter days mean that I need to slip out of work as early as possible and move with alacrity. Today we accompanied a young Irish gelding, a very nice four year-old on his second ride out. It went well, Brena's quite confidence being a calming influence on what must be strange for the youngster. The new responsibility even reduced Brena's snatching at vegetation.

All that perseverence in the spring when she was not as calm has now begun to pay off.

Come to think of it, the bold step of flying to another country and buying a horse has paid off. In many respects Brena is just right for me. She represents what I seek from a horse: an equine companion who is affectionate, has plenty of character, possesses that solidity of mind which comes from drauight breeding, enjoys being out on the trail, and generally makes riding pleasurable.

Comments

[Jess]

Im so happy you have found your equine partner, and she has found her human. She always preferred men too, and from all accounts her breeder (A slovenian farmer) treated her like a puppy. After much umming and ahhing about selling Navarro, Paolo has finally decided that actually, he is his equine partner. I cant imagine anyone else with Navarro either, and now that Paolo's passion for groundwork and riding has returned, Navarro is becoming an amazing little horse, that really loves to work.

[White Horse Pilgrim]

It's curious that you say this, Jess, because I was thinking that Brena reminds me of another strong-willed mare who preferred men and had been brought up by a family like a pet - the unforgettable Olga.

There is something a bit puppy-like about Brena - the desire to rub against me, pleasure in being around people, and a certain willingness to please whilst also trying boundaries. It's endearing and, provided that I exercise some leadership, safe and sensible.

One day I shall go to Slovenia and see where Brena came from. I've found the farm on Google satellite, and it looks like a nice place.

I am glad that Paulo has decided to keep Navarro. This matter of finding an equine partner, it is important. Like a human partnership this takes time, there will be disagreements, however the bond becomes strong enough to overcome adversity.