When both our horses died this winter (one fell ill, one had to be put down because of an injury), we felt so sad and devastated that we decided to not have horses for a while. We wanted to settle down, grieve and think properly before committing to anything more. 

Luckily, we aren't very good at following through on principles like that. Because one day not so long ago, I had a message from a lady telling me about her horse, an old horse that she loved so dearly but couldn't keep any longer. The way she described the horse and the picture she painted for my inner eye was too much; I had to see them. They lived only an hours drive from us, so on Sunday we all drove up there to see whether my gut feeling was right.

Borklill is a beautiful mare, 19 years old, of the dølahest breed, just like Marius and Albertine. She has lived with the same family since she was a foal, and they too had four children, and lived on a small farm aiming for a self-sufficient life - just like us. She has done a lot of work for them; both on the farm and in the forest, and she has been ridden by them all. Now, all the children are grown up and have moved out, and Borklill was one of few animals left on the farm. She needed a fresh start, and so did we, so we took her home with us that very day and has fallen in love completely. The kids have been riding her every day (with Nik leading the horse), and we spend the days hanging out with her in the field, cuddling and grooming and getting to know her. Every time I come close to her, she neighs a little hello. She leans in close and lets me smell and kiss her head and nose. She is sturdy and calm but still with a bit of zest left in her. I have a feeling there are many wonderful experiences ahead. 

Sometimes life provides sudden gifts you didn't even know you wanted, and they might just be exactly what you need.

Welcome to us, sweet Borklill!