This week, our herd said goodbye to Decadent Man, "Manny". He was the herd alpha, the goofball, and the Man of Chestnut Hall.💚
Manny ran this place. He ate first, got treats first, and made sure every horse (and human) knew exactly who was in charge. But underneath that bossy exterior was one of the most intuitive, gentle souls we've ever known. He had a gift for knowing exactly who needed him and how.
He was also, without question, an all-around goofball. Anyone who's seen our Chestnut Hall volunteer seminar footage knows Manny couldn't help but steal the frame, rubbing his butt on the fence post, poking his nose in where it didn't belong, just being himself. We can't watch it without laughing.
In May, we said goodbye to his best friend, Just a Flash. He was big, beautiful, and one of the gentlest hearts in our entire herd. Flash gave so much to our therapy program, including one unforgettable evening with a young girl in our family therapy group. She learned Flash wore special shoes to walk comfortably, just like the braces she wore herself. Watching her realize she and Flash were alike, it was a magical moment we were able to share and just one of so many more that show the unbelievable effect our herd has had on those they've touched.
Manny and Flash shared a paddock at Chestnut Hall for years. Flash loved his post-meal baths so much he'd walk to the hose on his own and wait patiently. And Manny would stand beside him, resting his face on Flash's back just to drink the water running off him.
We are so beyond lucky to have these amazing members of our herd.🕊️
#TRF #ThoroughbredRetirement #TherapyHorses #HerdFamily #ForeverInOurHearts