26/12/2023
Christmas was a long day. Probably 15 hours from the time I left the farm until I returned (extra long due to a vehicle malfunction). But a day that epitomizes why we do what we do, and the joy that horses and carriages bring.
A few years ago we made a new Christmas tradition with a senior living facility in Rockville. Last year's rides were brutally cold. This year's mild temperatures enabled us to venture further into Rockville Town Center, past the restaurants, shops and skating rink, giving our passengers the opportunity to sing, laugh and interact with passers-by.
One resident with significant mobility challenges really wanted to ride. Getting her into the carriage was almost a Christmas miracle itself. We were able to position her wheelchair on the van's lift, and maneuver the carriage close to her. God bless Raleigh and Lori Brunnen for keeping him occupied -- treats, zippers, fingers, scratches...while our passengers were loaded. She couldn't get all the way into the seat, but sat on the floor supported by 2 staff members, with her feet on the carriage step, and her smile absolutely beaming. She wanted the long route, and she absolutely loved every minute of it. Her husband was also in the carriage, and we learned later that this may have been his last Christmas. That one ride made the entire day worthwhile.
I want to thank my elves who made Christmas Eve and Christmas Day possible. Lori Brunnen, Kris Goeckeritz, Amanda Bruner, Jim, Corey, Jen, Michele, and Jason Daisey for allowing me to use Bellavista as an intermediate staging point.
Finally, let me acknowledge the horses -- two purebred Cleveland Bays together in commercial work. Ga***rd Raleigh Cleveland Bay, who at 6 years old has become an incredibly reliable carriage partner, and Bellavista Exeter, who just aced his first commercial gig. Neither of these horses would exist had it not been for the breeding program of Jason R. Daisey and Bella Vista Cleveland Bays, and I am very proud of my role in the initiation and continuation of this breeding program
