More on Equi*Star

I enjoy the riders, the other volunteers, the instructor, the horses, (some naughty, some nice.) It is fun, especially when somebody, horse or otherwise, makes a ruckus. (Forgive me, but it does get kinda boring leading the horses around at a walk around the same arena, except for when Jeff plans something fun and fast like barrel-races, or trail rides!) Sometimes Jeff will plan fun things, like contests or races. He also likes to make up games like the dice game race and other such games. 2 weeks ago Jeff had the kids jousting, where the riders have a rod and they have to ride up and "spear" the Hula Hoop! Some times Dustin gets carried away and tries to spear Jeff. Emily was equally enthusiastic, acting like a Civil War General!
Angelina and I have worked with some interesting characters at Equi*Star. I worked with 2 blind siblings, 2 autistic little boys, anxious old ladies, deaf kids, many kids and adults with ADD and ADHD, mute people, people with mental retardations... They all bring their own challenges, problems, quirks, and triumphs. I love seeing these kids, and older people, get over issues and gain confidence that they didn't have before. One boy comes to mind: Joey, a boy of 10 or 11. He has a syndrome called Aspergers Desease; behaviorally it is very much like Autism. Joey was out of control, with his mom, his teachers; nobody could "help" him. After 1 session with one instructor, they sent him to us. I started working with him, found that he just need some boundaries and respect, and to show respect. I didn't let him push my buttons, though he came close many time! He learned that he could control himself, and he could be controllable. He stopped acting like the wild man of Gadera; he stopped trying to slap the horse, didn't act like he was sleeping on the horse, he was attentive and more obedient, he didn't let spit drip out his mouth. He was like a whole new person! His mother marveled at his progress and attentiveness. He still has many issues to work through, but he growing... I say all this not to be prideful or to boast, I'm not the only one helping with these kids, but to say that successes like Joey, and Anne, and Luka, and Patty, and Haley, and Brianna, and so many others. That is why I volunteer at Equi*Star. Sure, there are people that bug me, some no-it-all's, but you work around them and still show respect, still be a good testimony and glorify God. Sometimes it is sweaty and dusty and hot, but fun! I don't hate being sweaty, dusty, hot. Hey, I get to be with horses every week anyway! Every once in a while a rider won't show up and one of us will get to ride. I always choose to ride Savannah, a Clydesdale/Quarter horse mix with a big head, cloddy feet and a calm, sweet personality. Equi*Star owns about 14 horse able to be ridden. One, Nikka, just got broke enough for handicaps to ride. Another, Black, is so docile a baby could ride him. I enjoy the diversity and challenges of the ranch.

Me walking next to Joey in the 2007 "Special Olympics". I think he got Silver, second place.