"I can't believe you're getting more horses!"

Since my accident, I have lost a horse and somehow gained three more. Shortly after the incident, my dad's horse had to be put down. It was completely devastating and hard to cope with; especially when my emotions were (and have been) intensified due to my brain injury.

My horse, Shyanne, is a bit needy when it comes to "friends," so I knew I had to find her another companion. I tried to spend as much time with her as I could, but her separation anxiety would really tense me up. During the first few weeks, I found it difficult being around her. I would have panic attacks and kind of relive the day of the accident. It's really bizarre how the mind works. I've been doing a lot better with that sort of thing now.. But, I'll still get a little worked up on my "bad" days.

Anyways, not only did Shyanne need a friend replacement... So did my dad. I ended up finding two really great horses at a local ranch. We were planning on only taking the little Arabian-mix, because my dad would be able to begin working with her very lightly. By the time I would have healed completely is when I would be able to begin working with her under a saddle. Plus, Shyanne would have a new friend to keep her company.

However, Belle (the pony) kind of sneaked her way into all of our hearts. I'm unable to do much with any of the horses... but little Belle is basically a huge dog. She's been really helping me with my confidence (due to her docile mannerism) and it's been aiding me in getting comfortable with Shyanne again.

That's how that happened.

However, if you know us.. We're a little excessive... :) This is Tilly... Our newest addition to the family!

Just because something bad happens.. Doesn't necessarily mean you should just quit or cut it out of your life. I know a lot of people think I'm crazy for still loving horses as much as I do after such circumstances... but it's basically like telling someone to omit a part of them that helps define their definition of "happiness." :)