Appaloosa Memories: Sonny Part 2

Sonny was my steed of choice for the Pink Ladies themed drill team that formed at the barn. When we performed at the state fair, Sonny tolerantly allowed me to tie shimmery pink ribbons in his mane and wrap his legs with pink polo wraps. I decked out in my satin jacket and saddle shoes and horn-rimmed glasses. As the music started and we entered the arena, Sonny had a sudden attack of separation anxiety, and refused to turn away from his partner, skittering across the arena as I desperately tried to regain control. We finished the rest of the drill without incident, but I was so embarrassed. Fortunately, he performed much better in our repeat performance at a local schooling show.

There were far more good times than bad as he taught me to ride. I adored him. I spent hours giving him extra attention. In the winter he often developed scratches (an inflamed rash of sorts) from standing ankle deep in mud. Every visit I hosed his legs until his socks were white again, and bought desitin to apply to his cuts. When the weather was nice, I took countless photos of him (pre-digital, mind you). When I wasn’t leading trail rides for Terry on Sonny, I used him to give pony rides to a little girl named Kyra.

When I decided to pursue equine science after high school, it was Sonny who helped me earn a place on the equestrian team at my college. Daddy came out with his camera and videotaped me demonstrating my skills on Sonny so I could apply to the equestrian team. I was accepted. Not long after, I was in an accident that put riding on hold for four months. When I came home to visit at Thanksgiving, Sonny was my first ride.

Sonny was perpetually 18. Lesson horses just don’t age in the mind of kids. But while I was away in college, my instructor retired and Sonny retired with her. I visited her and her pasture of deserving retirees a few times, always saying hello to my beloved Sonny, who was now showing his age. Then I heard he was gone.

There’s a new appaloosa love in my life these days. But Sonny is still in my heart.