Happy birthday, Storm!
Storm’s baby picture
24 years ago today, Storm Watch was born. He arrived to me at 6 years old, and barely fitting in the trailer they found to ship him to me. Turns out he was large and in charge from day one, which is not at all what I was looking for! I have to give him credit for making me into the human I am today, without him pushing me kicking and screaming into it and all the blood, sweat, and tears along the way, I wouldn’t be who I am.
There is no shortage of funny faces he can make.
His goofy character has made everyone he’s ever met laugh. And when someone needs a sensitive soul to bear witness to whatever pain they are carrying, he’s right there.
His teaching is the reason I’m the human that I am
He’s shown me a patience like I have never known from another human, and yet a stubbornness to make me figure it out when I am not doing something in the best way possible. He’s always honest, and real, and never shy about his opinions of anything. And somehow through all my foibles, he is still right there, willing to connect and work with me and alongside me.
Storm staring out the barn door at the mini donkeys outside
He’s always been afraid of chickens and goats, and miniature donkeys, and sometimes will swear there’s a boogieman somewhere that I can’t see, despite the fact that he’s the biggest horse for miles. Despite his fear of small animals, he’s always the boss hoss. He is a patient and kind herd leader, even if he does like to institute the “Storm Exercise Program” of moving horses just for the fun of it with his big body. He’s helped raise babies and teach them how to be horses, playing with them for hours, while teaching them all about boundaries and permission.
His nickers are quiet huffles in his nose that are almost inaudible if you don’t know what you’re looking for, but he’s always looking out for me. He’d try to fit in your pocket if he could, and he’ll always give you a once over for treats. He’ll take every scratch you can offer until your arms are falling off, and still ask you for more, smiling his silly flipped up lip smile the whole time.
I end up covered in hair for at least 6 months out of the year.
He turns into a wooly mammoth in winter, and sheds for months at a time, showering everyone who has the pleasure (displeasure?) of encountering him with his magical fibers of love. He’ll find every pile of poop to sleep in, I’m convinced that he doesn’t actually want to be gray.
I am humbled at the trust he has in me, and our connection continues to grow and evolve after 18 years together. He’s taught me about energy, and managing it, and knowing how I am showing up and the impact it has on others. And even when I’ve messed it up pretty bad, he has always forgiven me and been ready to reconnect and rebuild the relationship.
He has never minded kisses on his nose, which is a good thing since he gets them every time he gets close! Photo by Kaleigh Guthrie
I’m deeply grateful for every moment with this wise, goofy, patient, stubborn soul. He’s taught me to listen - to horses, to all animals, to the energy beneath the surface. And he’s shown me that even when we mess up, connection can be rebuilt.
If your animal is trying to teach you something and you’re struggling to hear it, I’d love to help you listen.
