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ASHA Thank You Letter to My Saddlebred: Santana Snow

Dear Santana Snow, “Ellie”,         

I'll never forget the night we first met. I came to the barn to watch lessons. I had not been in a barn in 40 years. I showed 4H as a teenager but had to give my horse up when I went to college. I was asked if I wanted to ride that night, and I could not resist. As I swung up onto your back and started around the arena memories of how much I loved this came flooding back and I immediately wanted more. Little did we know then how important this night would become in my life. 

I started taking lessons again. As my lessons progressed so did my riding abilities and when I was asked if I wanted to show in Academy I didn't hesitate to say "yes". (Truth be told I could feel the "show bug" flying around me that first night) 

Then COVID hit and horse shows were cancelling one after another. Still determined, we continued to practice and get ready for the day I entered the show ring once again. 

On July 21, my life took a devastating turn when my 29 year old son passed away from a seizure. My barn family immediately surrounded me with love and support, reminding me that Saddlebred necks are perfect for hugging. That is exactly what I did. I put my arms around your neck and you stood patiently while I just held on and breathed in, filling my nostrils with the scent of horse (none better) Your calm demeanor brought me comfort and peace. You sensed what I needed and were rewarded with extra peppermints as a thank you. 

Horse shows were once again happening and you and I were scheduled to show at Dayton on August 8. I wasn't sure if I would be able to but with support and encouragement I decided to try. I was curious to see the "horse show Ellie" who I was told likes to show off in front of other horses. You did not disappoint me. You knew your job and took me around the ring and together we received a first and second place finish. You knew I needed a win in my life at that time and were only too happy to oblige...the true heart and soul of a show horse. Walking back to the barn from the ring and seeing the blue ribbon hanging from your bridle brought me my first genuine smile in weeks.  

So thank you, Santana Snow. Thank you for being the horse that I needed, no matter what the circumstance. 

Thank you for being the lesson horse that taught a 56 year old how to ride again.

Thank you for being the fun horse that I can take on a trail ride around the farm enjoying sunshine and fresh air. You hate to flat walk and I love that about you. 

Thank you for being the show horse that is beautiful and proud. That can carry anyone from a novice to an experienced rider into the ring, giving each one exactly what they need.

Thank you for being a gentle giant. A horse that is happy when I put a halter on and take outside to eat some grass. Seeing you graze on a spot of clover makes me smile and melts my sadness away. You are an equine mood lifter. 

I am so grateful that you and the barn came into my life when it did. I am looking forward to more wonderful memories with people and animals that I love. I could not agree more with Winston Churchill when he said "there is nothing better for the inside of a man than the outside of a horse". 

Love, 

Cindy

  

Cindy Kowalsky, is an adult rider from Pennsylvania, who has returned to the sport after 30 plus years on the sidelines and falling in love with the American Saddlebred at Heritage Stables in Rices Landing, Pennsylvania.