Birthdays are special at Red Bucket for one very important reason, we value life! We give our horses a new birthday the day that they are adopted, as that very special day represents a new beginning and the first day in a family that has committed to loving, care-taking, and treasuring that horse forever. Champ, a stunning registered Paint, was rescued at a slaughter auction, barely avoiding a horrifying and brutal end. Clearly he had no value to whoever had dropped him off, as he was skinny with uncared for feet and a dejected and frightened eye. He was also confused, confused about what was happening to him…and why. Today Champ woke up in the back pasture, having spent the warm summer evening with his BFF Olaf the Giant and Frankie, grazing and visiting with the “girls” Autumn and Tilley in the adjacent paddock. He is safe now, surrounded by familiar friends and the emerging understanding that his days bring certainty and compassion which is packaged in many ways and in every interaction and touch. He shares a birthday with his new “horse mom” Karen, who is also a member of our Red Bucket family. Karen, a selfless rescuer, Red Bucket supporter and dear friend, is also the proud adopter of Cookie and the guardian, sponsor and self-appointed protector of little Keely (who Karen affectionately calls “Orphan Annie”). We congratulate Karen and Champ on their happily-ever-after and wish them both a very Happy Birthday. Lest our post be incomplete, we should state the obvious; Champ is no longer confused!