It was 1998 and being in a different country (Canada), speaking a different language was not easy, but manageable. A bit harder to manage is riding 15 horses a day, cleaning stalls and look after the mommies and babies. But given there are 24 hours in a day, it is doable…
Nice thing about working with babies and mommies there are usually daddies too! And daddies make a difference! Since i was a little girl I had a soft spot for Walt Disney movies, you know the ones that always end right, the good guy gets the pretty girl and no animals die, ever, or the go to doggy heaven.
So being in a foreign county with all these beautiful horses was just fantastic! There was one in particular, a Morgan stallion named Fox Trim Classic. He was just like the Black Stallion, but sweeter! Basically he was just big pup, but nobody had the guts to compare a horse to a dog, so i just thought he was fantastic. I had the pleasure to ride him in a big show two weeks after i got to meet him and every day after that. I just loved the “big” (only 15.2 which is really not that big) boy.
I grew quite fond of his owner as well and I told her if I was EVER going to move to The States and if she EVER wanted to sell him for whatever reason I would take him! Off course being 19 years old and very optimistic and naive about live, I thought it was a reasonable suggestion...
And live goes on.
When we moved to the States in 2006 it never occurred to me that Classic, would still around. He had to be in his twenties and after a full life of breeding every mare presented to him, I didn’t think it was a possibility, of him being alive and kicking…
I was wrong (in a very good way, wrong)!
In April of 2008 we got the earth shocking news that I had cancer. After that news I was very lost and lonely (even with all my loving family and friends surrounding me) and it was a hectic and stress full time.
Two weeks after I received the shocking news I got another phone call. From the woman who had Classic!?! If I would be interested in having him, he was all retired and she needed a good home for him, she was getting a divorce and needed to find him a good new home.
After 12 years I said YES right away! It was just a gift from heaven, to let me know that I didn’t have to battle cancer all by myself …
So he came, a little more gray, being beautiful, understanding, sweet and powerful and during chemo, every time if I felt I just couldn’t do it no more I just had to look outside the window and see my black stallion and I know I could…
This all happened three years ago and i STILL look out the window every ten minutes to see if he is there. If we are at the farm and i know bad weather is coming, i will run home and make sure a he and his buddy Jones are ok. And yes, i will make Bastiaan go outside, right before we go to bed, and check up on him. Just in case... And i know Bastiaan doesn't mind...
I am also pretty sure that just like us, he's ready for round two and kick some cancer butt again. He sure is my Black Stallion!
This was one of my first posts from 2009 a little bit changed (no new pictures i just didn't have the time...), i hope you liked it (again)!
...
We got home from Chicago and it is decision making time. What doctor, which hospital and what treatment... All of these different decisions make my head spin... Though choices are never easy ;-)
87 comments:
Your Classic is so beautiful! Not just his outer beauty but his inner beauty shines though. You have a special bond and I am so glad you have him to help you, once again.
Prayers and Hugs to you, sweet lady.
Beautiful pictures and a heart-warming story of the final home of Classic. I can see what a source of comfort and joy and beautiful friend like that would be in your upset life. I'm so glad it turned out so well!
No tough choices are never easy. I am so thrilled you shared the story again of Classic. He's a beauty and I LOVE the pic with you in your wedding dress with him. We're praying for you!
Hi Leontien, What a beauty of a horse.You look pretty in your dress. Our animals can be our biggest comfort when going thru really hard times. My sweet siamese was my constant companion while going through the loss of my Father years ago.
If your ever want a Disney movie that was great from my childhood Thomasina is a classic. I pray that you make the right decisions and pray you have good doctors who care. Hugs Cheri Try not to worry..
Nothing like the love and comfort of a beautiful horse. I hope your choices and decisions also give you comfort. Your story of how you got Classic is very touching...you were meant to have this journey together. Kick Butt!
Love the story - horses can be a true comfort. You can do this!
i am glad your sweet classic is still by your side to cheer you as you head into battle #2. prayers for you and your decisions, dearie. love to you all...
That is such a beautiful story. I love that fact that you both found each other again. He will continue to give you the comfort and strength you need for this next round of challenges.
What a beautiful story of reunification and hope. And what a beautiful horse!
Heel veel sterkte en geluk de komende tijd!
Blessings,
This Good Life
I will never get tired of his photos and i love that one of you and him in your wedding photo. he is truly truly beautiful and this story is every bit as good as a Disney story and my prayer for you is a Happy ending, a happily ever after ending.
Oh you are so lucky to have found each other. Classic and Leontien are some serious power together. I hope you find the right decision for yourself. I know that is a very hard thing to do. I love your story and it is so appropriate. He is a beauty and so are you my dear Leontien in your lovely wedding dress. Kick butt girl. You both together are unstoppable. Bastiaan is a sweetie I can tell. B
praying that you have confidence on your decisions.. and thanking God that your amazing stallion is there for you.. what a gift.. and thansk for sharing
Hoping all goes well.I saw a mule Saturday on a ride that was 34.
He is beautiful....just like his owner! I think horses always have a way of making people feel better! Prayers and hugs coming your way sweet Leontien!
What a beautiful story. Horses have a way of healing us and making everything better. I know my horses have brought me through the toughest times in my life.
I have health issues, too, and my horses are the driving force behind my desire to get better. I want to be healthy enough to ride them, but even when I'm not they're still there for me. I've leaned on them so many times, and they're always happy to lend me their strength. I've cried countless tears into their manes, but they never mind listening to my sorrows. They are truly incredible animals.
Good luck with your decision. These things are never easy.
This is a beautiful story, Leontien. Thanks for sharing. I'm so happy you got that beautiful stallion and can see him every day! He is a lucky guy to have a home with you. I'll be praying for you as you make these new decisions. Love and hugs to you!
He is a beauty! Fairy tales and wishes, do come true!
Wonderful post, Leontien!
There are people known for horse whispering. Perhaps this is a horse, that people whispers.
Keeping you in my prayers.
Wat een prachtig verhaal en wat een mooi paard zo fijn dat ie toch nog bij je is terecht gekomen en dat je steun aan hem hebt.......ik wens je wijsheid en kracht toe lieverd en ga voor je bidden ...liefs van mij...xxx..
I loved the story of how you got Classic the first time I read it, and I love it now! If you must go into battle, riding a big, beautiful horse like him would be the way to go!
You are in my prayers-
That is a very nice story and a beautiful horse for a beautiful girl. I have and will continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Beautiful horse for a beautiful woman. His strength will see you through. We are all here to give an extra push!! Big prayers girl!!
Of course, I love this heart-warming story. And your beautiful horse radiates the beauty that comes from you.
Gorgeous horse, Leontien. Good luck, God bless. I pray you will beat this again. ♥
He is a beautiful horse! This is a "meant to be"story if I ever heard one.Just like a Disney movie!
What an absolutely stunning horse he is. And what an incredible story - you found each other again. It's just lovely.
Good luck with your decision making. Lots of hugs and luck to you from Scotland.
Wow - what a beauty - and the horse is nice too hehe We are all learning so much from you. Please stay strong and positive.
Classic is beautiful. May you soak yourself in the love between you and this beautiful creature as you travel your journey. Know I continue to life you up in my thoughts and prayers, Leontien.
thinking of you during this time. what an amazing story with classic. animals are a part of our lives in some surprising ways.
i used to work a little on the backstretch of race tracks in and around chicago. yeah, needed 24 hours in a day back then to do what i had to:)
What a beautiful story.....and one that gives us faith that there are happy endings.
Love this story as I am a sucker for horses and what a beauty he is. I love the Morgans.
Once the decisions are made and you are being proactive, things should be less stressful. You stay in my prayers.
What a dream come true, man he is a beauty!! I love this story and I love how he needed you just as much as you needed him!! You provided the perfect retirement home for him and he couldn't ask for a better owner in return he gives you the comfort you need during this hard time.
Something about being around a horse, their smell, soft nickers and warm eyes seem to make life all the more sweeter!
Hang in there!!
I'm so glad you got your horse. A lovely story. It was meant to be.
A special horse for a special person.
Classic... well, he IS classic. Your love story with him is nothing short of a wonder. I'm glad you have him.
I know these decisions are difficult. Still holding you and yours up in prayers. blessings ~ tanna
Such a beautiful story of your Classic love. LIfe is sp full of surprises. I'm glad he came in your life again. Stay strong and I send good energy!
You and your black stallion are so strong and beautiful!!!
I'm continuing to pray for you, the doctors..... and the right decisions you will make!
You are loved!
What a neat story Leontien! I will continue to pray for you as you fight this battle...you are not alone!
What a beautiful, beautiful, horse....My father-in-law, when he was still with us, raised Arabians - and certain of them just touched you with their strength and beauty. I can only imagine what it must have been like to welcome Classic back into your life....Lucky you - lucky him. Praying that the decisions come easily, and that you are at peace with them when made. Just remember that every decision is the right one if made for the right reason at the time....Praying, hoping, & keeping you close in thought ~ Robin
Thinking about you.
Praying for you, too.
He sure is a pretty boy!! Maybe you will need a couple alpacas to look at out your window... or we can bring them to Chicago!?!
Big hugs!
I love your beautiful black stallion...you were destined to be together! So glad he is there to support you through your upcoming treatments. Thank you for keeping us in the loop...
Hey Hon,
It's been awhile since I've been here in blogville...just dropping in to tell you I'm back from my blog vacation and will be visiting again.
I love the horse...OMG he's beautiful and it's shows the love you have for him....your story is a beautiful one...brought a tear to the eyes.
Hugs
Hawk
Hi Leontien,
Classic is so handsome, I'm sure he'll give you so much pleasure and support again. I do so hope your difficult choices are made and give you peace of mind as well as all the help you need. I'll be thinking of you across the pond, and sending all the positive thoughts I can muster.
Thank you for making time for your sweet visit, hope all goes well.
Rose H
x
Listen to what your body, heart and mind and soul, tells you. We will be there to support you wherever and whatever you decide.
Hugs!
How beautiful and inspiring. Animals have a connection and healing power. I really believe that. He's a magnificent creature. :)
Beautiful story...beautiful pictures! Still praying for you. Hang in there!
You and Classic were meant to be together. I'm keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
You know we are horse people, so I *love* this post. So sweet, and I can't wait for our daughters to read it. I hope you are having a good day and feeling well. Please keep us posted, and we are still praying for you!
In my prayers every day
Take care.
I never actually read this post back then. It is beautiful! still praying for you!
I am new here - but your horse is gorgeous. Are you saying that you have cancer? I am so sorry and will add you to my prayer list.
I saw that you joined my network blog and thank you for that - but I meant follower on my regular blog - if you want to join my anniversary game.
Would love to have you and reciprocate.
Love, sandie
Oops you did - sorry. I am your newest follower too! sandie
I pray that God gives you guidance in your decision making Leontien. Your story of Classic was truly amazing!
Love Di ♥
Beautiful story of Classic, Leontien... You write so well--and from the heart... Classic was lucky to have you --as lucky as you were to have him...
My love and prayers are with you as you go through this next hurdle in your life... God Bless.
Hugs,
Betsy
Dear Leontien, I'm so glad that yo got a chance to own Classic. What a beautiful horse and a beautiful story.
I'm hoping that you will the right decision and your oncologist too. Fight this cancer with all your might. Wishing you strength and courage to get through this. Hugs.
And oh yeah, thanks for your sweet comment on my blog. JB
I love your posts about your horse - he's so incredibly handsome!
So glad the package made it there alright. I hope the fudge didn't end up tasting like the candle by the time it got there!
Leontien,
what a heart warming story! And the photos are lovely...makes me wish for a horse again!
Thank you for commenting on my blog yesterday! IT is so good to meet you.
♥Charlotte
I love the story of Classic and love the picture with you in you wedding dress. Isn't it amazing how horses/animals make us feel? It's great to see you surrounding yourself with people and animals- that will make those tough decisions have silver lining. {Hugs}
What a beautiful story this is Leontien, and what a beauty Classic is. He was so very obviously meant to be with you.
Please know that I think of you often, and that you are in my prayers.
lisa. xo
there is a bigger message here, he is with you for a reason!!
big hugs...you are stronger then you think!!
What a beautiful story with a beautiful endin'!!! I'm so happy that God gave the desire of your heart sweetie. The horse is just stunnin'!!!
Know my hear and prayers are with you...you are not alone!
God bless ya from the sunny hills and hollers of the Missouri Ponderosa!!! :o)
Leontien,
I have not stopped by in a while so I didn't know you were in a battle again. I will be praying for you. So glad you have that magnificent horse and faithful family and friends to help you through.
Kim
this was so beautiful. as were the pictures. God does amazing things, doesn't He? :)
many 'older' people hang out at our country 'mall' too... but that makes it one of the beautiful things about it. many are friends, despite the age difference :)
happy day to you! praying about your treatments.
What a beautiful story. Horses make the best therapy animals. I'm so glad for him and for you
Oh gosh what a beautiful, beautiful horse! I am not surprised you fell in love...
I hope that you can make the good choices for treatment and hospitals. My heart goes out to you about that.
Glad that you had and have your black beauty with you when us humans aren't enough. And it's true, sometimes an animal is just what we need and a human isn't when we feel really alone.
Hugs to you dear Leontien.
It IS hard to choose. My empathy.
xoxox,
Thinking of you.
Leontein-I know things will work out for you, I have faith.
Classic is lovely and you look so pretty next to him in your wedding dress.
I hope you have received the package I sent you by now, think sculls!
Terry
That is a great story of faith and finding your blessings during tough trials. He is a gorgeous horse. I am sending my prayers your way as you make decisions. Stay strong.
A handsome horse and a beautiful lady. It was meant to be. Best wishes in all things Leontien. :)
Leontian your story of your special love for your stallion is so precious.
I will be praying for you concerning all the decisions you must make soon,
Blessings-Kimberly
What a beautiful horse....and isn't it something what they can do for you..in so many ways?
Thinking of you...and your decisions...hugs xx
Thanks for sharing Classic's story and telling about the strength he creates in you. I hate that you are experiencing tough times and have hard decisions to make. Lots of love coming your way - cyber hugs, too! ((((((HUG))))))
Hope that you are ok.
Was thinking about you today.
x Fiona
That's a beautiful story, Leontien.
What a sweet story, and a beautiful stallion!
what a sweet and soul warming story!
loved every single word of it.
the photos are really beautiful, too!
sending prayers and positive thoughts your way, dear friend!
(((hugs)))
Beautiful story! I so enjoy your blog. You are continually in my prayers. I pray for one of God's miracles for you and that His will be done.
What a beautiful horse, and what a beautiful story. My favorite book as a young girl was "The Black Stallion" -I read it a "ton" of times. So glad you shared this post. Hope all is well. Mickie :)
Hello, Leontien --
What a beautiful boy you have there! I had to smile at your description of your Disney-based horse soft-spot. I can totally relate.
I can also relate to what you're going through.
Here's what I want to tell you: YOU. ARE. LOVED.
The evidence is everywhere and obvious, even to those of us just landing in your world.
Consider yourself good and hugged all the way from Fargo!
My prayers for you.
Somehow, I missed this post. I'm glad that you have your Black Stallion by your side to help you fight. A horse is such comfort, big and strong enough to wrap your arms around and hug. And, the good ones, like Classic, will understand, and extend that aura, that only horses have, so that it covers you, too.
I know you've had some difficult times; because my wife is a four year survivor, though she chose not to have chemo and radiation after her surgery. I share your love of horses, though I haven't had one for years.
Horses are such beautiful animals, and the beautiful bride by the horse is too. I am so glad your horse returned to brought such strength and power. Things happen for reasons...
so beautiful! the horse AND the bride! :o)
i've been too busy to do much blogging lately, but i'm thinking of you and sending all the positive thoughts i can muster!
hugs! kandy
Together again. Thank you to you and your wonderful family for cherishing him so much.
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