Meet Tim! A thirty-something year old Appaloosa with an infectious personality that could rival most humans. Tim and I go way back — to my days when I used to ride regularly and spend most of my waking hours at the barn. While my life no longer revolves around horses, I made an exception this past weekend.
I haven’t seen Tim in seven years. Yet somehow, this cantankerous Appaloosa didn’t forget the sound of my voice, or that I nicknamed him “fluffy” because he always grew such a thick coat in winter. No, this senior horse knew me by the way I slipped the halter over his head and how I talked to him as we walked side by side in the courtyard. He recognized an old friend. For both of us, it was like we had just seen each other yesterday — without missing a beat. I guess that’s how you are with old friends.
British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, well known for an apt phrase, once commented “There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.” I’ve always found that it is impossible to be upset when you’re in the company of an animal — whether it’s a cat, dog, or horse.
Tim is quiet, seldom uttering horse sounds. Yet as a non-verbal animal, the best therapy I ever received was from Tim. He will unconditionally listen to anyone he meets, and he never passes judgement (unless you forget to give him a treat!). That’s the greatest characteristic anyone could ask for in a friend.
What a beautiful animal. I love that you have a connection with Tim. I think animals really nourish our souls. 🙂
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thanks, Kathrine! Tim is the best. He’s such a sweet and gentle creature.
This is such a beautiful post, it is so wonderful that Tim remembered you after all these years. What a handsome fellow!
Thanks, Kasie! He’s a very smart horse — and a good companion.
Love this post! Tim looks amazing!!
Love,
Kisses and hugs from http://www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
Thanks, Trang! Tim’s the best!
Wow, this is such a beautiful post, Vanessa! I’m a HUGE animal lover, so I really loved reading about Tim! I didn’t know the life expectancy of horses are so long! Thanks so much for sharing and I hope you’re having a great week so far!
XO,
Jalisa
http://www.thestylecontour.com
Thanks, Jalisa! Tim is a special creature with an amazing personality. His owner has cared for him very well — actually so well that I kid around with her and say that I wouldn’t mind being her next horse! So glad you enjoyed this post!