First off, how great is this self-portrait? Lovin’ it! I sent my camera with Max the other day so that while Max was loading horses to take to our family ranch, Chase, the handsome rascal pictured below, could take some pictures of the final morning at Galloping Grace of Smoke, Jericho, and Tomahawk. I guess Chase was feeling extra photogenic and decided to get a shot of himself. The picture was not deleted from my camera, so I’m assuming he longed for it to be posted right here– and here it is. I bet Chase loved the freedom of taking pictures of whatever and whomever he chose. The grin tells it all. It was one fantastic morning for Mr. Koester. If only for that day, he was a patrician, and a happy one at that! Lucky for all of us, Chase also took some pictures of the above mentioned horses. Those three just did not make the cut. I think we’re all a little sad to see them go, but we want what’s best for all the kids that come out. And let’s face it, it doesn’t make much sense to feed horses that are not fulfilling any needs on the ranch.
Tomahawk is the horse pictured above. The vet guesstimated that he was in his late 20′s. I really wish I had a before picture and an after picture to show you how great he is looking now. He had ribs sticking out every which way. Max and Deanell have really worked to put weight on him. Deanell took extra care several times a week grooming, feeding, and rubbing salve on areas of his body that are private but needed help. It was a tough job, but Deanell was sweet enough to try and help him out. I know he’ll miss all the extra TLC he got here. Deanell, thanks for being there for the old guy.

Good Ol’ Smoke. This guy ruled the herd and how! If only he knew how to cooperate a little better under the saddle we’d continue to let him harass and bully all the other fellows. Sadly, he isn’t much fun to ride. I think Trish and Taz liked him, but that was about it. Plus, I’m sure the other ranch herd has been missing his stern, yet effective leadership. Horses are just like humans–they want someone to tell them what they can eat and where they can stand and how close they can be to everyone else. I bet they also have been missing the little love nips he dishes out. That has to feel good on their tough, itchy hides. I’m sad I wasn’t there to see their reactions as he rolled off that trailer. I miss all the fun pictures! Jericho is also being cut. Axed. Let go. He had such promise, but it wasn’t to be. We want to thank Steff, Max’s step mom, for letting us try him out at GG. Maybe if Max had more time to dedicate to working with him, things might have ended differently. Claire used to ride Jericho all the time at the big ranch with little problem. Maybe they all just get a little cranky and uncooperative in their old age. But maybe not. Black is the oldest horse on the ranch and definitely my favorite because he’s so responsive. I guess I should stop flinging my theories around like they hold any water–clearly they don’t. Tomahawk, Smoke, and Jericho, enjoy your greener pastures. We’ll see you around. Oh, and you’re welcome for the cushy life you’ve lived for the last few months. Take those memories of easy feed, lots of love, and horse treats galore as your parting gifts from all of us at Galloping Grace.

Chase, thanks for the pictures.