Another Year Goes By

Sunday was Izzy's birthday; he turned 15. I always enjoy Speedy's birthdays, but for obvious reasons, Izzy's birthdays are worrisome. We're the only mid-level dressage team who can't even pull off a successful outing at Introductory Level. As each birthday ticks by, we have one less year to get anywhere. I feel as though we're running out of time.

Little Brown Horse, 9 days old.

I said as much to Sean Cunningham, owner and trainer at STC Dressage, but he scoffed and said maintenance isn't a big deal. Plenty of horses (and people) continue working into their senior years. I get it, but I still wish time wouldn't pass so quickly.

Medium Brown Horse, 3 months old.

When I told my husband how old Izzy was, he raised his eyebrows in surprise. That old? was his response. When I said that I've had him more than 8 years already, he said it feels like much longer. I agreed.

Almost big Brown Horse, 11 months old.

I've never had two old guys at the same time. One has always been young and upcoming. At this stage in my life though, I don't know if I'll ever want another youngster. They're fun and exciting, but they're also a gigantic pain in the butt, especially if they're big and brown.

15 months old - RPSI Inspection

Fifteen years old ... it was a bittersweet birthday. Even so, happy birthday, Izzy!