Scout's Happy Birthday!

I almost forgot to mention it's Scout's birthday!

Just a bit ago he was 7 years old. Wow. He was an incredibly feisty little thing, and now he's such a lazy mountain of horse.

Seven years ago, at about 9: 33ish o'clock PM, listening to the baby monitor, I heard Bella's water break. She was breathing like a freight train. By the time I made it the hundred yards to the barn, Scout was in the world up to his hips and already trying to get up. In fear of his hind legs flailing inside his mother, I took hold of his legs and felt how terribly heavy and slick a little horse is. But then it was over, and a whole new adventure had begun.

It's been an interesting ride so far. He's had more than his fair share of troubles, and I think he inadvertently caused the death of his (and my) best friend, but he was only trying to help him get up. He may not always put a lot of energy into life, but he is fiercely loyal, trustworthy, predictable, funny, and a damn good horse. If only he'd get well so we can find an adventure to chase. (I think the antihistamine is helping.) I'm proud to say I'm his second mama, and I hope I always will be.

Happy birthday, ya big goob.

Oh how dearly do I hope that we have many, many laughs - and adventures - ahead.