Harkening back to my July post on my overwhelming surprise at receiving Wiley, my Christmas gift horse…. It wasn’t just a huge surprise, it was also a bit of a shock. A little hard to take in, some quick figuring was needed about what to do next. Easy solution. I always say, when in doubt, go shopping ! So that’s what I did.
A quick visit to Dover’s website ( www.doversaddlery.com ) to look at the latest and greatest in equine equipment and fashions was in order. Wiley was in need of a lot of stuff if he was going to keep up with his stall buddies. ( Wiley hangs out on a beautiful 400 acre waterfront farm near Cape Charles, Virginia and I didn’t want him to embarrassed in front of his new friends.) A new rolled leather halter with a monogramed name plate seemed like a good start. Of course, every self respecting young colt has to have a cool coat for winter. A handsome burgandy blanket piped with gray and a charcoal gray blanket to contrast with his light gray coat seemed to be the perfect fashion statements for stepping into the upcoming show season.
Apparently Wiley thought so too. New halter, new blanket — now he held his head high when people passed in front of his stall. Not just some horse turned out in a field, Wiley’s demeanor changed. No longer when you opened the stall did he turn and face the corner. No, now he looked directly at you and walked forward to meet you, ready to shake hoofs. He was ready for some R-E-S-P-E-C-T ! Women have always known that a new outfit and a makeover can make you feel great but who knew that it was the same for horses ? Wildfire was now on his way and show season was just around the corner ! Next post — Wiley’s first show.