There are plans, and then there is life.
Initially, Aquila and I were to stay at our WWOOF location for two weeks. Nearly two years later, we were still there.
The farm owners were looking for long term apprentices and we were happy to fill those roles. Despite my family believing I had joined a cult, I felt free. I was making decisions for myself, learning what I wanted even if I had no idea where it was taking me.
Over time, we lived with nearly 150 people from all over the world; like us, they wanted to experience Canadian small farming. I loved learning about everyone’s different cultures through sometimes thick accents and exuberant body language. We became a family for a short time. What a diverse, revolving-door family it was.
Every spare moment I had I spent at the barn. It felt like the horses were also teaching me about equine culture through a silent language of their own. Whether I was leading them out to their paddocks, helping with night feed, or simply standing by their side, I struggled to understand them and loved every minute.
Whether it was learning to live in human or horse community, the lessons received often coincided. Everything I practised with horses was completely applicable to people. Both species can require enormous amounts of patience, while simultaneously offering support and growth.
Two full planting seasons had passed as WWOOFers for room and board, and Aquila and I started feeling the need to find paid work. Once we decided it was time to move on, I began to feel panic. I could not imagine my life without horses. An occasional horse visit would not suffice; I was thoroughly addicted and needed my dose every day.
Unexpectedly, a solution was offered: I would become a farrier.
Subscribe to find out how this came to be.
I would love to know how life has surprised you, leave a comment!
This is part of a continuing story – click here to start from the beginning!
I cherish the memory of being able to commune with horses every day, truly a bond that defies description
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Absolutely – so glad you had those experiences 😊
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Woohoo 🐎
The plot thickens 💕🌞🌻🐝
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😁
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I love reading your story unfold and can’t wait to read more, more, more!
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Thank you!! I feel honoured that people are interested 😊
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I sometimes look backward on my life, and realize the huge significance of an event or a choice that seemed completely mundane or “usual” at the time… Yes, life is full of surprises!
Great post!!!
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Thank you! 20/20 vision looking back 😊
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Really enjoying this story telling of yours!
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Thank you so much!
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Naww man….I gotta wait 2 more weeks for more of your story…. Sigh!!
I love listening to you!! ❤️🤗 Thanks for sharing!!
And I can’t think of a time that life has surprised me…if I think of one I’ll let cha know!! 👍😃
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You are so kind! Thank you, Krys!
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Hi nicce reading your post
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So glad to hear that 🙂
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