A Solid Foundation of Three…
Known as the family pet, any – and every – kid would run out barefoot and clamber
up on to Dandy’s couch sized back throughout the hot summer months. As Esmee
fondly recalls, “You could just sit there as she grazed through the fields and when
you were lucky enough, you were able to ride out her little jog and the occasional
slow motion canter back to the barn for some scraps she devoured. A love for horses
that was clearly engrained in my DNA, and this big mare definitely ignited that
passion.”
As years went on, Esmee begged her parents for a horse of her own. One lucky Christmas when she was seven years old, her dream came true… Dusty the Wonder Horse was officially Esmee and her cousin Ashley’s first horse – an old roper that was retired to life as a kid’s horse. He was as solid and safe as they get, although in his younger years, he was known as Bone Crusher. He packed Esmee & Ashley around without batting an eye, and any other friends or family members that happened to take a turn. He also put up with all of the girly musings such as braids and blankets and even a Canada Day Parade ride through the Village of Pemberton.
One year Ashley & I dressed up in our ballet tutus and placed a glittery unicorn horn on his head as a costume for riding in Pemberton’s Canada Day Parade. It is but one of many examples of how this gentle soul took care of us little girls. He carried me through so many evenings roping alongside my Uncle and his cowboy friends as well as countless hours on the trail. I will never forget his steady rhythm underneath me and the smell of his pure white coat.
As it became clear that Dusty’s old age was slowing him down, Esmee’s Aunt and Uncle offered her the chance to ride Cocoa Buzz. He was the epitome of an all-round horse and was yet another babysitter for Esmee growing up.
“From cutting and roping, to trail riding, jumping and Dressage this old gelding did it all. I will never forget how vocal he was when rolling and his sensitive little quirks when it came to a squeaky saddle. Buzz was the first horse I began Dressage training when I was 12 and he kindly accepted my beginner mistakes day after day. Handsome as ever and sweet as could be, Buzzer and I had so many adventures together throughout the Sea to Sky Corridor.”
