Red Man

Here is our Big  Red.

When we first came to Monticello and this beautiful property, we decided that like the Cartwright's, we NEEDED horses. Margaret already had her Sunny, so Dean and I went about looking for our horses. I got the cutest little Paint, and named him Jazzy. Dean decided on Big Red, a Tennesee Walker, who was around 14 years old.

It did not take long for Red to endear himself to his new owner. While Dean and I were riding the property one sunny fall day in 2001, I was thrown from that cute little paint and lay lifeless on the ground. Dean was panicked, when I was not breathing, but as soon as I began breathing, he knew that just yelling in the middle of the pasture was not going to get me any medical help. Red was standing calmy by. Dean only had to give him the simplest "nudge", and off he galloped, taking Dean to the cabin to get help from none other than the Orkin man!! After this mishap, we returned the cute little paint, and chose a more reliable horse.. Salty.

Needless to say, we developed a great confidence in our big red horse, after this experience.

Red became a favorite with the grandchildren, because he loved to be groomed by all the tiny hands. Each grandchild rode him, except for Ellie. She did sit on his back, but was a little nervous about striding out on this big boy!! One year, Ruthie and Rusty rode double on the big red horse.

He and Sunny and Salty became the closest of friends. They stood in the shade during the hot summers and frolicked during the cooler months.  Then, a new friend was added, when Woolly Bully, the donkey, joined the crew. Our "Men on Hooves" continued enjoying each other and their world.

Now, Red Man is short term, due to his liver problems. Big Red will remain long term in our hearts.