This morning we got up early because Pete had numerous things to do before heading to Anchorage. He had a flight to catch at noon; he was going to Fairbanks to see a friend.

I usually get up first. This morning, I decided to sleep in but could not because Pete was banging pots and pans and kitchen utensils around. I considered waiting on feeding the horses until after eating breakfast because it was so early. Pete said that breakfast would be in 15 minutes, so I decided to go out and feed and pick up some poop.

Raudi grazing on the bench

As I approached the enclosure, I noticed that something was wrong with Raudi. She was upright, and one leg was forward, in a walk-type stride. But she was standing still. I went into the pen and saw what the problem was – her right front hoof was caught in the bottom portion of the fence. Her shoes are such that they stick out in the rear – so a section of fence wire was trapped in her shoe.

I went and got some hay for her, so that she would remain still. I also gave Hrimmi and Tyra some hay. I then ran up to the house and yelled for Pete. Fortunately, he heard me before I got to the door. I told him what happened, then raced back in order to keep Raudi from moving. Pete came down the hill and went into the tack room and rooted around for the nippers. Nothing around here is ever where it should be, and this time was no exception.

Finally, he entered the pen and cut the wire. Raudi remained very subdued. I examined her hoof and leg and determined that nothing was amiss.

Pete and I returned to the house, so as to eat our respective breakfasts. My stomach was in a knot, so I didn’t eat much. What ifs came to mind before and after breakfast. For example, what if Raudi had moved? What form might a potential injury take? What if Pete wasn’t around and I was, how would I have extricated her? And who would I have called to give me an assist?

Thoughts about Raudi’s mortality came to mind all day. She’s 20 – in some circles, this is old for a horse. In another 13 years she’ll be Tinni’s age. This time is going to go by fast. How will I get along without her? I am very fond of her. Her standing so still made me even more fond of her.

I may have learned a valuable lesson here, and this is that I do need to spend more time with all three mares, this including Raudi. So I got all three out for a ride today. It was raining when I got Hrimfara out – but I’ve decided that rain or shine, I’m going to keep riding. It was overcast when I rode Tyra. And it was almost sunny tonight when I rode Raudi.

A real scare, this happening. I have to force myself to think exclusively in the present about Raudi or I will go bonkers.

Next: 215. 8/7/23: Reconnecting with my Horses