Cole and I would like to introduce to everyone the newest member of the Carlson family – KeKai Grace!! Today has in every way been a dream come true. I first met KeKai (formerly Stormy) a little over a month ago (see my blog here about our first ride) and ever since she has been stealing my heart bit by bit. KeKai is exactly what I need in a horse partner – she is confident in what she knows, she loves to learn new things, she takes care of her rider and she likes to make you think. More importantly though, KeKai and I have bonded in a way I haven’t ever bonded with a horse. She trusts me to do things she won’t let other people do (like hold her head and play with her ears a lot). She has even let me cuddle with her in the pasture!
KeKai is fittingly joining our family as she is also a rescue horse. She once had a very loving owner who tragically passed away leaving her beloved horse behind. Unfortunately, she fell into not so kind hands before being placed with Northwoods Animal Rehabilitation Sanctuary & Adoption Center. Thankfully, a wonderful crew of humans teamed up to bring KeKai back to the horse she is now. Cole and I decided to rename her because Stormy just doesn’t describe her. However, we know that her first owner named her this and wanted to make sure she has a connection to her first human. So, KeKai (pronounced KiKai) is actually Stormy in Hawaiian. She seems to like the name and perks her ears every time I say it.
Anyone that spends a little bit of time with me knows that I love horses. As long as I can remember, I’ve asked for my very own horse for my birthday. Today was really a dream come true. We spent the day celebrating by doing a little arena work before heading out for a trail ride. It became very clear quickly that she loves being on the trail. I cannot wait for many, many hours exploring this amazing area with her!
I cannot thank Witchtree Training Center, Northwoods Animal Rehabilitation Sanctuary, Elisa, Kathy and Mary enough for bringing Stormy and I together. This also could not have happened without the unwavering support from my other half, Cole. I know that today was the beginning of a lifelong partnership!!
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