Angels Dressed Like Horses

Mental illness is not a fun thing to deal with. I go back and forth between these two thoughts:

1) This is a very private thing...something other people don't want to hear about.

2) We need to talk about it because, it is very prevalent and nobody should be ashamed of having it. It's in the nervous system (physical) and not the afflicted individuals fault.

I guess, today, the second thought won out.

However, with trials come blessings. This week, we were so blessed to have OSC summer riding camp. We had something everyday to get up and look forward to. The individuals and volunteers that run the camp are so understanding, they don't care when you get there or in what shape you're in when you finally arrive. They exhibit true Christ-like behavior and take you as you are! They cried with us this week and celebrated all the small victories. We forged some new friends and found understanding among families dealing with similar issues. Swimming in the pool alone was worth going out to Calero everyday. Gehrig helped build an obstacle course near the craft table so the kids could practice and accomplish different tasks. The kids (and adults) loved it! He felt very good when everyone thanked him for his efforts and construction.

Natalee got a blue ribbon and certificate for riding in the show. Her horse even earned a ribbon!

Before the show, she exhibited her newly learned grooming skills and braided Me Too's main so it wouldn't hang in his eyes. He's a patient little guy. He was even dressed up as Lord Farquad from Shrek one day!

Natalee got to learn some basic vaulting from Miss Pat.