The boys continue to do nothing useful from the human point-of-view. From a horse perspective, their schedules are packed: taking mud baths, sleeping in the sun – when available, and eating huge amounts of hay. It’s winter. It’s a good time to do these things.
In some ways Milton has not changed with the new barn routine [Naptime]. He objects to being groomed. He beats up on Rodney [Reference Photos]. He is insanely protective of his meals. This is our second OTTB to be obsessed with food. Perhaps a remnant of time in the joint?
In other ways, Milton is hugely different. The bitterness is gone. He is friendlier. He moves better. We’ve gone from Why is he here? to Wow, check out that horse! We are likely to be amused by his antics rather than annoyed. Recently, we’ve both been known to sit in the barn and watch them, for no reason other than the joy of looking at two lovely horses.
Significantly, I have stopped crying every time I see him. Seriously. For the past year, I’d walk into the barn. I’d look at Milton. I’d cry. It’s been a happy little haven around here. I figured I hated myself for – oh, pick one – letting a good horse go to waste, being unmotivated, being useless, being a weenie, wasting the short number of days alloted to me, doing everything wrong, and on and on.
As soon as Milton’s naps started, my tears stopped.
I still kick myself in frustration, this wasn’t a miracle cure, but I haven’t cried in the barn since Milton started talking naps. I mentioned this phenomenon earlier [Positives]. Turns out that was a temporary reprieve while we had him on Bute. Drugs stopped; waterworks recommenced. Go figure. I haven’t a clue.
Onwards!
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Gratuitous Cat: Percy
Virtual Brush Box 