10/30/2020
Yesterday was the last day of Osage Season 2020. Our final session was with two little boys (siblings) who don’t get along very well. They left feeling connected and joyous after working cooperatively in the barn to take care of the horses. We gathered briefly as a staff (those who were here yesterday – missed you Tony and Laci) and had a little toast, sang a few songs and celebrated the resilience of all involved during this strange yet amazing year; staff, horses, children, parents, community partners and the barn cats (and resident fox Todd) who tolerated it all.
Then it was time for the annual ritual of setting the horses free for the winter into their large pasture in the heart of the farm. I hope, as they raced up the hill, that they felt the same sense of a job well done as we did. We are certainly thankful to them for all they gave.
The Osage Corral has the most talented, dedicated, flexible, brilliant staff. They delivered in a big way and on so many levels every single day. They never wavered in the COVID safety protocols, they continued their learning/training in spite of the barriers and they brought skill, good cheer, energy and experience to all of the children we served this summer – children whose already stressful lives had been further complicated by COVID.
And it seemed they needed us like never before………
When the kids arrived this summer they were desperate to connect, be in nature, to move, breathe and be in a safe space where they could process all they were going through. The horses provided comfort and learning and support; and for those who have been here before, a familiar touchstone. My heart is full right now and I am thankful for the small difference we were able to make. Now it is time for the horses and staff to rest, unwind, keep safe and maybe, around early January, start dreaming again of the Spring to come.
