Today marks the fifth anniversary of a commitment to one horse…an event, that has impacted hundreds, we trust that one day it will be tens of thousands of horses saved. She was just a baby, little more than two years old, she had been brutalized, terrified, and then abandoned…that was her first betrayal. The barn manager didn’t think that he should have to feed her, since he wasn’t collecting board…so he didn’t, that was the second. Once she was emaciated and far too skinny to run her through the auction, he decided to call the “kill truck” …yet another cruel and callous act of betrayal. We arrived first. It took 6 1/2 hours, empathic patience, and one red bucket of carrots to catch her…that was exactly 5 years ago today, and we haven’t let go since. Today, her name is Harlow and she lives on the ranch that the horses own. While it took months to be able to groom her (initially only on her cheek, and only with a small soft eyebrow brush), and a good year before she actually enjoyed it. Today, her gleaming coat tells the tale of a horse that has more than survived…but is thriving. She trots up to her mom and other human friends when her name is called, eager for attention and affection. Her red bucket now has the company of other red buckets, all serving as a concrete reminders……and promises. While many of the horses who come to us for their second chances seem to forget…Harlow has not, she carries a sensitivity that reminds us that she remembers, yet in spite of her betrayals, she is loving, kind……and loyal. While Harlow marks the very beginning, our daily work is to ensure that there will be no end. Many thanks to all who support helping us help the horses.