STORM AND THE MAGIC SADDLE
A Horse Tale Inspired By Actual Events
By
Donald Dahl
SMASHWORDS EDITION
PUBLISHED BY:
Donald Dahl on Smashwords
STORM AND THE MAGIC SADDLE
Copyright 2012 by Donald Dahl
Smashwords Edition License Notes:
This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.
This book is a work of fiction. Human names, characters, and events are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, without permission from the author.
Acknowledgments
Thanks to Sandy Piscitello who volunteered to read the book and whose enthusiastic encouragement and rave reviews inspired me to go forward with publication.
This book is dedicated to all fellow horse lovers, Li'l Liza Jane, Gold Storm Warning, and most importantly, Robin who is the ultimate "horseman", friend, companion and wife.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1 The Eyes Never Lie
Chapter 2 Not Quite Right
Chapter 3 Storm Damage
Chapter 4 A Magic Saddle?
Chapter 5 A Born Leader
Chapter 6 A Wild Ride
Chapter 7 The Escape
Chapter 8 Proof Positive?
Chapter 9 Snake Bitten
Chapter 10 Maxi-Me
Chapter 11 Snake, Rattle, And Roll
Chapter 12 Cry Thief
Chapter 13 Let’s Make A Deal
Chapter 14 Riding A Real Horse
Chapter 15 Rumor Has It
Chapter 16 The Twister
Chapter 17 A Legend Is Born
Chapter 18 On The Road Again!
CHAPTER 1
THE EYES NEVER LIE
“Don’t you dare even think about it,” snorted Liza to the huge horsefly that had just made a perfect landing on the center of her back.
“What sweetie could you possibly be referring to?” Buzz asked in a low timid voice.
“You sound like a horse that has just been caught in the oat barrel. I’m referring to the nasty bite that you intend to plant on me,” replied Liza.
Buzz considered informing the black and white pinto mare that boy horseflies do not bite, but instead; decided to have a little fun with her. “I’m from quite a ways up north. I love to tour the countryside and just dropped by to be neighborly and to introduce myself to everyone in the pasture. I have no intentions of biting anyone. At least, for the moment, that is!”
“Are you trying to tell me that horseflies do not bite horses?”
“We don’t bite just any old nag; most of us prefer beautiful young pintos like you. I promise that my bite will not hurt toooooo much.”
“I could care less about a little pain! My concern is that you will leave a huge ugly knot on my beautiful coat. I am 75% pure Egyptian Arabian. My granddaddy was purchased by a zillionaire sheik that flew him off to Arab Land. My parents are both famous show horses. Robin, my person (Liza refers to her owner as “my person”, she refuses to accept that she could be owned) may decide to show me someday,” Liza proudly boasted.
Buzz quickly shoved his left wing into his mouth to keep from busting out in laughter. He was aware that there was a prissy young Arabian living in this part of Texas but did not realize that she was such a knockout. Liza’s reaction to his arrival was his first clue that this was the filly that his cousin Billy Bob Macfly had told him about. A horse’s usual reaction to a horsefly is a swift swish of the tail. "This babe was too “prissy” to smack a horsefly. It might leave a gooey mess. Not quite the adornment a 75% pure Egyptian Arabian should sport," Buzz thought to himself.
“My name is Danny Bob Macfly but my friends call me Buzz. I would like to make a deal with you. I won’t ever put a knot in your beautiful coat if you don’t try and crush me with your tail.”
“My name is Li'l Liza Jane but my friends call me Liza. You can call me Miss Li'l Liza Jane,” she whispered with a big grin on her face. “The deal is, you don’t bite me and I won’t bite you, capish? That’s Egyptian for understand!” Liza uttered as she wiped the grin from her face.
Liza has always disliked horseflies. She felt they were rude, crude, diseased, and nothing but pests. Buzz seemed to be different from all the others she had encountered. She had never met one that she could communicate or bargain with. They usually just bite and run, requiring a quick smack with her tail to defend her flawless coat. She really disliked swatting flies. It just did not seem lady like and was not what should be expected of an Egyptian Arabian. After all, she was the next best thing in these parts to royalty and was honor bound to serve as a role model. Texas is not exactly Arabian horse country. The majority of the horses in these parts are quarter horses and thoroughbreds.
For the 4-year-old Liza, friends have been hard to come by. It was not her fault that she was a rose growing up in a weed patch. Heck, she tried to get along with her pasture mates and even let Dasher and Bucky scratch her back now and then. She would even occasionally let one of them be the lead horse on trail rides. She has tried not to make her superiority an issue with the other horses. Yet, they still were reluctant to be her friend. Now, here she was, the most beautiful horse in the world (at least in her mind) making friends with a horsefly! “Do we have a deal?” Liza asked.
Buzz was eager to accept Liza’s terms. She was gorgeous, naïve, and yet intelligent. He was anxious to get home and tell his friends and relatives about his new friend. Liza and Buzz were destined to become good friends. Liza loved to talk, and for the longest time she has had no one willing to listen to her. Buzz was definitely a listener. It was an art handed down from generation to generation in the Macfly family. As Grandpa Elvis Bob often put it, “anyone can talk but only a true friend actually listens.” Buzz was fascinated to hear Liza detail her family tree and pedigrees. He had been taught never to argue religion, politics, or horse bloodlines. He simply shook his head in acknowledgement as Liza discussed how she was related to just about every famous horse known to man.
“I’m sorry Buzz; I guess I’m getting carried away. It’s been a long time since I have had someone I could really talk to. The horses I live with are a real drag. They just want to talk about the past. I’m too young to have a past! You notice any Arabian stallions in your travels? I’m about to die of boredom here,” she moaned.
“Sorry Liza, haven’t spotted any Arabs. I hear there is an Arab breeder somewhere outside of Cleburne but I have never been out that way. There are some great horses near where I live but they are all Tennessee Walkers. There is this one horse in particular that I think you would like. He is the sweetest young thing but a little accident-prone. I think he is a little younger than you though. He is becoming quite famous in our neck of the woods or at least his saddle is.”
“Sorry, not interested. Only an Arab would do. It would be nice to have someone here that is not ancient like the other horses but I have my standards and refuse to lower them.”
“I’m sorry girl, I wouldn’t want to see that happen but I think you really would like this guy.”
“Maybe the next time we get together we can discuss this famous horse of yours Buzz. There’s really nothing I can do anyway. I’m afraid I’m stuck with these two old geezers for quite a long time. Oh, what a miserable thought!”
It was getting late and the sun was rapidly moving to the west. Soon, Buzz would have to head home for dinner. Liza was eager to wander up the pasture to see what Dasher and Bucky were up to. The horses would soon be taken to the barn for the evening. They would be served dinner consisting of feed and hay. Liza enjoyed the feed but much preferred the taste of oats. Her oat in-take was being limited. The oats did not contain the vitamins and protein required by a young horse. Worst of all, they were not good for her filly figure. After the appropriate goodbyes were exchanged, Buzz began his long trek home for dinner and Liza began her prance to the top of the pasture.
As she crested the hill Liza could see Dasher and Bucky standing near the large pasture gate. Dasher has always been the alpha male (the boss) of the pasture. Bucky considers following Dasher around the pasture an obligation and an honor. Liza usually refused to play the horse hierarchy game, after all; she was an Egyptian Arabian. She allowed Dasher to be the boss when it suited her. Dasher had no problem with Liza’s refusal to acknowledge him as leader. In fact, her moxie was one of the things he liked about her. Dasher knew that Liza was conceited, self-centered, vain, and just plain full of herself. Yet, he still liked her. He was no slouch in the bloodline department himself. He came from a long line of racing quarter horses and retired at the age of 4 undefeated. A leg injury had cut his outstanding career short. Being 11, Dasher is still considered a fairly young horse. He misses the excitement of the racetrack but has great satisfaction in having retired at the top of his field. Very few racehorses can claim having gone undefeated. He is a very muscular bay (red with a black mane and tail) and he possesses an almost perfect white star in the center of his forehead. Now that he is retired, Dasher’s life consists mostly of trail riding and lounging in the pasture. To this day, he still has a hard time adapting to the slow pace of trail riding. His current owner Reta Doyle trained him to transition from racehorse to pleasure riding horse. Luckily for Dasher, Mrs. Doyle was a very experienced horse trainer who made the experience as easy as possible for the both of them. She had ridden and trained horses from the time she was a little girl.
Bucky, a short and stocky buckskin quarter horse mix, he has an extremely large head with a jet-black tail and mane. As the most recent addition to the Doyle household, he was adopted when Reta’s husband Dave decided to take up riding. He is 15 years old and was a riding school horse for most of his life. He had to have a great deal of patience and tolerance for the numerous green horns that paid to ride him. Many of the riding school patrons were children who had never been on a horse. Bucky enjoyed the challenge and loved his job. He was sold to the Doyles after two children had fallen off of him. The children were not hurt and had not fallen due to any fault of Bucky’s, however; the school was concerned about liability and decided to cater only to experienced riders. When the change was made, Bucky’s services were no longer required. He is a people horse; he loves humans and prefers being ridden to grazing with other horses. He has a great deal of awe and respect for Dasher but only tolerates Liza. His biggest gripe with Liza is not her ego, it is the lack of respect she shows Dasher. He has tried on several occasions to discuss with Liza her place in the herd but to no avail. He swears that if Liza recounts her heritage to him just one more time he will nip her in the rump!
As Liza approached her pasture mates she noted that Bucky was in his usual position next to Dasher. "Jeez, what a suck up,” thought Liza as she managed to shoehorn herself between the two. “Hey guys, what’s up?”
“Bucky and I were just trying to figure out whose turn it is to take us to the barn tonight,” Dasher replied.
“Sure hope Robin shows up, I could use a good grooming and have a few areas that could use a little spot remover work,” Liza responded.
“You can bet it won’t be Donnie, he hasn’t been around since you threw him Liza!” Bucky pointed out.
“Only Robin and Mrs. Doyle have the experience and knowledge of horses to handle an Egyptian Arabian of my caliber. It’s not my fault that Donnie did not cinch the saddle tight enough. He should have at least known to lean back in the saddle when riding downhill! I did not throw him; I just made it hard to stay on! Besides, I like Donnie; he sneaks me oats now and then,” Liza offered in defense.
“Can’t one day go by without you two bickering?” Dasher shouted.
“Sorry Dasher,” Bucky muttered.
“I’m not arguing, just stating facts,” Liza said while rolling her eyes and shifting her weight to give Bucky a swift hindquarter-to-hindquarter nudge.
Bucky was just about to retaliate when Reta was sighted coming from the barn toward the pasture. “Looks like you were saved by the bell again Liza,” Bucky boomed.
“Can it, buffalo head!” Liza retorted.
“It never ends,” Dasher muttered to himself as he shook his head in disgust.
Reta Doyle has been a horse lover since the first time she laid eyes on one. She grew up in a small town called Gilberton in Washington State. She started riding when she was 7 years old. At 13 she saved enough money to buy her first horse. Her parents were not rich so Reta was required to earn money babysitting to support the horse. She became well known locally as the resident horse expert. She augmented her babysitting income by training and breaking-in other’s horses. During her teenage years she performed in local rodeos as a barrel racer. When she was 21, Reta attended a local college and worked part time as a waitress in an Italian restaurant in Bremerton Washington. That is where she met Dave. He was 25 and was in the Navy stationed in the area. It was darn close to love at first sight! After only a few months of dating, they fell in love and got married. Shortly after the wedding, Dave received orders to Florida. As a Navy wife, Reta realized that relocation went with the territory. It was not easy “pulling up ones roots”, but it had to be done. Reta and Dave were blessed with 2 children. Robin who is now 13 and Donnie who turns 11 in a few days.
Dave retired from the Navy after a 20-year career. He subsequently took a job at an electrical power plant in Glenn Rose Texas. Dave was well aware of Reta’s love of horses. She did not have to twist his arm to persuade him to purchase a small horse ranch in Granbury, about 20 miles from where he was employed. It is a small ranch but has plenty of pasture to support at least 8 horses. It takes about 1 acre of grazing land per horse. The Doyle’s ranch has 10 acres of pasture and includes a 4-bedroom house, a small riding arena, and a barn. The barn has 6 horse stalls, 4 on the main house side of the barn and 2 on the other. Each stall has its own outside run which is similar to a paddock but smaller. The run allows the horses to go outside. A door to the run is normally open except when the temperature outside drops below freezing. The barn also has a tack room to store saddles/horse gear, and a storage area for feed, oats, and hay.
Reta has wanted to own a horse ranch her entire life. In addition to being a stay-at-home mom her primary responsibility is tending to the horses. It is a job that she adores even though it entails cleaning out (mucking) the horse stalls daily. The original plan was for each person to tend to his or her own horse. With Dave working and Robin in school, Reta has had to take care of all 3 horses on weekdays. A situation she actually preferred. Of course, Dave, Robin, and even Donnie share in taking the horses to the barn and feeding them each evening. Donnie is the only family member that does not ride or own a horse. Until recently, he has shown very little interest in horses. Two weeks ago he fell off Robin’s horse Liza. Donnie was not injured but he was sore and embarrassed. The family has tried to get Donnie back on a horse ever since, but he has yet to do so. Donnie swears that Liza deliberately caused him to fall. It did seem odd when Liza went down the hill so fast. The slope was steep and horses usually go down hills slowly. On that day, Liza was almost galloping down the hill. The saddle was not as tightly cinched, as it should have been. Donnie held on as best he could but when the saddle slid forward, he wound up on the ground.
Robin was born with her mom’s love of horses and all other animals as well. She has long dark brown hair with eyes to match. A ponytail is usually her hairstyle of choice. She is slender and very athletic. Her primary interests are in horses, sports, and going to movies with her friends. Her mother nicknamed her Robbie from birth, which is what all family and friends call her. Reta and Dave surprised her with Liza on her eleventh birthday. They found Liza for sale on the Internet. Once Robbie’s parents saw the pictures of Liza, it was the horse they absolutely had to have.
Liza was an untrained 2 year-old and had never been ridden. Reta helped Robbie train and saddle break Liza. Robbie was taught to train her slowly with love and tenderness. She turned out to be an exceptionally smart horse and responded rapidly to the training. The very first time Robbie climbed atop Liza it was as if she had been riding Liza for years. Liza merely turned her head up to look at Robbie as if to say, “Welcome aboard!” Up until the day that Donnie fell, no one but Robbie or Reta had ridden her.
Robbie is also the owner of Snugs, a white half poodle and half lhasa apso mix with a bobbed tail. The proper term for such a dog is lhasapoo. Snugs is short for Snuggles. He was given the name because of his resemblance to Snuggles the bear from T.V. commercial fame. He was brown as a very young puppy but eventually turned almost solid white with tinges of brown. Snugs is quite a character. When given the chance, he loves to be around horses and chase the 2 barn cats. To his dismay, the cats do not fear him and rarely run. Dasher and Bucky are infatuated with Snugs. They usually stop whatever they are doing to watch him. Liza is either afraid or has a dislike for him. Most likely resulting from the time he laid his wet tongue on her nose. Liza was quite startled to say the least. Since that day, Liza has avoided Snugs.
Donnie stands a few inches shorter than Robbie. He has light brown hair and blue eyes. Like his father, he maintains his hair very short. Donnie is lightly freckled on his arms and face. He loves to run and play and is active in sports. He is the outdoor type and is not one to sit still. Computer games and the like are of little interest to him. He delights in being the class “cut up” which has gotten him into trouble on occasion. He was once described as being a “live wire”, on a report card. He loves his sister but would never let her know it.
Dave feels that his life began the day he met Reta. He carries a slight guilt about dragging the family all over the country during his Naval career. Travel is a part of the military that can't be avoided. Dave served his country well and retired as a Master Chief, the highest enlisted rate possible. His Naval training and experience made it easy for him to be hired for the job in Texas. One of his priorities after retirement was to purchase a property where Reta could keep Dasher. In the past, they had to keep him at rental stables. It was inconvenient and very expensive. After Dasher was settled into the new surroundings Reta convinced Dave to purchase Liza for Robbie’s birthday. Besides being a great present for Robbie, Liza would make a good companion for Dasher. Horses are like people in that they are not meant to be alone. They get very lonely and do not feel safe. They need to be in herds and are happiest when with a group. Dave has had little experience with horses but he wanted to start riding with Reta. Liza was a little too small and had a little too much spirit for a greenhorn. Dave found Bucky at the local riding school where he was taking lessons. Bucky is not tall but he is strong and well built. He easily carries Dave’s weight. Bucky is a great riding horse but he is no beauty. His head gives the appearance that it is way too big for his body. He loves to lick people and his tongue is extremely large. When he licks you, you know you have been licked!
Reta’s desire is to have the entire family ride together. She has tried to get Donnie interested in riding but has been careful not to push him too hard. The incident with Liza was a setback but she is sure that with the right horse, Donnie would enjoy riding. Reta and Dave have often discussed taking the entire family horse camping. The family would camp in an area designated for horses (equestrian area), trail ride through the woods by day and camp out at night. Dave and Reta have taken the children camping a few times and they really enjoyed it. The only obstacles to going horse camping are that Donnie does not ride and he has no horse. This is about to be changed!
The entire family dining together is almost a lost American tradition. This tradition would never be cast aside in the Doyle household!
“Well kids, how was your first day of school?” Dave asked after swallowing a tasty homemade french fry.
“Not too bad, Mr. Spears my math teacher was wearing two different shoes today and he wasn't even aware of it. He seems to be in outer space half the time,” replied Donnie.
“But did you learn anything in school today Donnie?” His mom asked.
“Of course I did, pay attention while getting dressed!”
Robbie immediately began to laugh and said to Donnie, “you are such a dweeb.”
“Better to be a dweeb than a horse’s patute,” he responded.
“OK, knock it off you two,” their father demanded. “This sure is great brisket,” he quickly added.
“Thanks honey, the secret is to cook it slowly,” Reta replied. “Donnie, have you thought about what you want for your birthday?”
“I could sure use a motor cycle.”
“That’s a big forget it, they are too dangerous and you are too young,” his father quickly interjected.
“How would you feel about a horse instead?” His mother asked.
“The only horse Donnie can ride sits outside the Wal-Mart store and costs a quarter to ride,” Robbie exclaimed.
“I can ride and would love owning a horse as long as it's not a camel like yours Robbie.”
“Camel, what do you mean by camel?” Robbie squealed.
“Arabian horses are camels and those that ride them are camel jockeys,” Donnie stated matter-of-factly.
Both parents commenced to laugh. They had not heard the referral to camels before. Reta could just imagine how Liza would take to being called a camel and it made her laugh even more.
“Come to think of it, it does look like Liza is developing 2 humps,” Reta asserted between moments of laughter.
After the children went to bed Reta and Dave went to the computer room to search the Internet for a birthday gift idea for Donnie. “Do you really think Donnie would like a horse or did he say so just because Robbie told him he could not ride?” Dave asked.
“I think it is a little bit of both. He feels a little left out because he is the only one without a horse and he hates Robbie rubbing in the fact that he is not an experienced rider. Maybe we should get him a horse. He could learn to ride and we could ride together as a family. We could go camping and trail riding. I’m sure he will love the horse and be grateful that we got him one,” Reta explained.
“Sounds good to me honey, let’s start looking for a horse this weekend.”
Reta gave Jake Noggle a call to see if he knew of any horses for sale. Jake owned the local feed store where the Doyles purchased most of their horse supplies. If anyone knew of a horse for sale, it would be Jake. When Jake learned that the horse would be for Donnie he immediately suggested the family look into purchasing a Tennessee Walking Horse. He explained that the Walker is a gaited horse and it provides the rider with an extremely smooth ride. They are also known to have calm and gentle dispositions. This boils down to minimal up and down pounding and little wear and tear on the rider.
“Donnie would find the Tennessee Walker to be a very enjoyable horse to ride and an easy horse to handle,” Jake explained. He told Reta that there was a Tennessee Walker horse farm located about 60 miles north near Dallas. He also indicated that the breeder usually had several horses for sale. Reta wrote down the name of the breeder and thanked Jake for the information. She was aware of the Tennessee Walker breed but had never ridden one.
Dave was very interested with Reta’s description of a Tennessee Walker. He was not familiar with the breed and had no idea that there was such a thing as a gaited horse. He agreed that it sounded like “just the ticket” for Donnie. It was decided that Donnie should have input in the selection. Reta and Dave found the breeder’s Internet site and discovered that they currently had several horses for sale. The horses were available in all ages and colors. The prices varied but were generally quite reasonable. Most horses listed were trained and saddle broke. The plan was to discuss the matter with Donnie and check out the horses on Saturday if he agreed. Reta noted that the breeder was open on Saturday and that no appointment was necessary. Life at the Doyle ranch was about to be changed forever!
Robbie wanted to go with the family to help pick out Donnie’s horse but had promised her best friend Diane that she would go to the movies. Donnie was relieved that she would not be there to try and persuade him one way or another. He was far more excited than his parents had anticipated. As their Ford F 250 pulled into “Tennessee Walkers of South Dallas”, you could see Donnie’s eyes darting. They jumped from the barn, out to the 2 pastures, and then to the huge arena. It looked like he was watching a tennis match. There were horses everywhere! Some were just grazing in the pastures, others were being trained, and a few were being shown to prospective buyers. Reta, Dave, and Donnie headed toward the barn to see if there was anyone available to help them. Robin Mason, the stable manager; emerged from the barn and greeted the Doyles as they approached. She was a brunette about 40 that had worked her way up from trainer to manager.
“How can I help you today?"
“We are looking for a horse for our son.” Reta answered.
“Well, you came to the right place. We currently have 37 horses for sale and 31 of them on the premises. Do you have any particular horse in mind?” Robin asked.
“Not really, I will know the right horse when I see it,” Donnie insisted. He had noticed a beautiful, elegant looking, long legged palomino being ridden in the arena. It had the prettiest light golden colored coat with a bright white mane and tail. The hint of gold glimmered in the sun like metal flake on an expensive car finish. The rider was apparently one of the trainers and he was showing the horse to an elderly man. The man was heavy set, short, and he was wearing a Dallas Cowboy cap.
“Is that horse for sale?” Donnie asked as he pointed to the palomino.
“Yes, that is Storm; he is a 2-1/2 year old and is one of my favorites. He is very sweet, rides like a dream, and loves people. His full name is Gold Storm Warning. The Gold Rush Is On, our most popular stallion, sired him. The man over there is considering purchasing Storm. My best guess is that he will be buying a mare that was shown to him earlier. Storm is probably too tall for him, but you never know. Would you like to go through the barn and see what we have?”
“Sure would, but I would like to check out Storm when that guy over there is done looking at him.”
The barn was very new and quite huge! It must have contained more than 50 stalls. The stalls were full of beautiful horses but none of them caught Donnie’s eye. There was one mare that Donnie liked but everyone agreed that she was too small. Donnie would be too big for her in just a few years. He could not get Storm out of his mind. He had never seen such a beautiful horse. At 2-1/2 Storm was just a kid with lots of growing up and maturing to do. Reta was concerned about that very thing. "Perhaps Storm would be too much horse for Donnie," she thought.
The gentleman wearing the Cowboy's cap departed and Storm was brought to the barn for Donnie to see. He was tied up in the area where the horses are saddled and bathed. Immediately upon looking into Storm’s eyes, Donnie knew that this was the horse he had to own! There was an instant connection that just can’t be put into words. Donnie began stroking Storm’s neck and back as though he had known Storm for years. Storm responded by putting his mouth on Donnie’s back and shoulder as if to be repaying the favor. Reta and Dave were quick to note that Storm did not put any teeth on Donnie. Teeth or no teeth, they did not like Storm putting his mouth on Donnie.
“We would have to break him of that,” Reta said in a stern tone.
“Would you like to try riding him?” Robin asked.
“Sure would!” Donnie responded quite eagerly.
The trainer (Steve Boggs), Robin, the Doyles, and Storm, headed for the arena.
“You ride him Mom and tell me what you think,” said Donnie.
“No Donnie, if he is going to be your horse you have to be the one to ride him.”
Steve asked Donnie his experience level and then briefed him on how to ride Storm. As Donnie climbed into the saddle it felt like he was sitting on top of the world. It was akin to riding a skyscraper! Storm stood there as still as can be, waiting orders. As instructed by Steve, Donnie gently kicked storm with the heels of both feet and made the traditional clucking and kissing sounds with his mouth. Storm began to walk slowly.
Steve yelled, “Don’t be afraid to kick him, kick him again to get him moving.”
Once again Donnie followed Steve’s direction and Storm picked up speed and was now in the famous gaited walk. The ride was like nothing Donnie had ever experienced. Heck, it was even smoother than the horses outside Wal-Mart that Robbie always kids him about! Donnie continued to make the clucking sound and gave Storm another little kick. Storm shifted gears and commenced the running walk, just as smooth but much faster. The next step up would be the canter. That Donnie decided; would be another day!
Reta and Dave were in absolute awe and amazement. They had never seen Donnie look so good atop a horse nor be in such control. Storm looked awesome. He looked like he was a veteran horse, not a mere 2-1/2 year old. Donnie pulled gently back on the reins and Storm came to a stop.
“I really want this horse!” Donnie shouted as he leaped from the saddle and landed on the ground to the left of Storm.
Luckily, the gentleman who was looking at Storm earlier did decide that Storm was too tall for him. Donnie’s parents discussed the asking price and made an offer on Storm. A price was agreed upon and a down payment was made pending the results of a pre-sale physical. The physical would be Monday or Tuesday. If all went well, Storm would be delivered to the Doyle ranch on Wednesday, which just happened to be Donnie’s birthday.
Robin offered to throw in the saddle as part of the deal. The saddle was very light because it was made out of a synthetic leather material and fiberglass (in lieu of leather and wood). It was not a great saddle and it had a large burn mark on the horn but the price was hard to beat! Reta thought it strange that Robin would offer to throw in the saddle when a deal had already been struck. She wisely decided not to tempt fate and ask why.
The vet appointment was scheduled for Monday and the vet agreed to call Reta with the results after his examination. Donnie was bubbling with joy and anticipation, he could hardly wait to tell Robbie that he was about to have the most beautiful horse in the pasture!
The vet report was interesting. He noted that Storm was missing 2 upper teeth on his right side. He stated that one of the missing teeth would never grow back in. He was not sure about the other. He found no other problems with Storm. The vet did assure Reta that the missing teeth should not create a health issue in the future for Storm. The missing teeth were a puzzle. Mrs. Doyle called Robin and asked if she knew how Storm lost the teeth. Robin had no idea nor did anyone else. Reta informed Robin that she would call back the next day with a final decision on Storm.
The missing teeth bothered Reta; there was something that just did not seem right. Surely, someone must know how Storm lost two teeth! Reta called Dave at work and relayed the news to him. He too was concerned about the missing teeth but did not feel it was a significant enough problem to prevent buying Storm. Even though Reta was having second thoughts, the decision to adopt Storm would be left to Donnie.
“Have you heard from the vet yet Mom?” Donnie yelled as he ran into the house.
“Yes Donnie, Storm was given a clean bill of health but there is one problem.”
“What is it?
“He is missing two upper teeth and they may never grow back, the vet told me.”
“Why is that a problem? Lots of people are missing teeth and they do fine.”
“It’s not so much that he is missing the teeth, the problem is; why is he missing two teeth?”
“It doesn’t make any difference to me how he lost his teeth, I like Storm better than any other horse in the world and I really want him.”
“That’s fine Donnie, there is no reason why we can’t go ahead and get Storm. I just want you to know that we may run into problems in the future related to his missing teeth. It may be harder for him to graze; there might be a problem with all of his teeth! Who knows? Maybe he fell and hit his teeth on a rock, maybe he was born without them. I just hope it’s not an omen of things to come.”
“Storm will be fine! I know he will turn out to be the best horse in the world. I could tell the minute I saw him in the arena that there was something special about him. He is not like other horses. When I looked into his eyes I could feel him telling me to buy him. Please Mom, don’t try and talk me out of getting him.”
Donnie could no longer hold back the tears. Reta put her arms around Donnie and held him for what must have been several minutes. She then assured Donnie that Storm would be his horse and she would never try and talk him out of it.
“I will call Robin and tell her to deliver Storm Wednesday, happy birthday Donnie!”
CHAPTER 2
NOT QUITE RIGHT
Dasher, Bucky, and Liza had gathered near the pasture gate in anticipation of being taken to the barn for the evening. The horses could see the entire Doyle family sitting on the front porch of the house. The family was gathered around Donnie as he was opening his birthday presents.
“This one is from Grandma and Grandpa Doyle,” Reta explained as she handed a fairly large package to Donnie. He rapidly scanned the birthday card and hastily ripped the colorful wrapping from the gift.
“Wow, a real remote controlled helicopter,” Donnie announced loudly.
“That’s a heck of a gift Donnie. We should have lots of fun with that. Make sure you call mom and dad tonight and thank them for it.”
“Sure will Dad, when do you think we can try it out?”
Real soon Son, but not today. I have a feeling that things will get busy around here this afternoon.”
“This is from Papa and Grandma Ledford,” said Reta. She had handed Donnie a birthday card containing 50 dollars.
“I’m rich!” Donnie shouted. “I know, I will call them tonight too Dad.”
“This is from me,” Robbie proclaimed while handing her brother his present.
“Where’s the card?” Donnie asked.
“I told you it is from me, why would you need a card?”
“I was just kidding you,” Donnie responded.
Inside the newspaper wrapping was a paperback book titled “Horsemanship for Dummies”. Robbie, Reta, and Dave all began to chuckle as Donnie read the title aloud.
“Thanks sis, I’d loan it to you but there does not appear to be enough pictures for you to be able to read it.” Donnie commented while thumbing through the book.
“It looks like we might be getting another horse.” Dasher informed Bucky and Liza.
“What makes you say that?” Liza asked.
“Donnie was in the barn preparing the stall next to Bucky. You guys must have seen him last night.”
“I was getting my beauty sleep and Bucky was too busy watching me all night.” Liza replied.
“In your dreams Liza! I decided to crash early myself.”
“An Arabian stallion would sure be nice; you two could use a male role model.” Liza commented while chewing a mouthful of hay she had just pulled from the hayrack.
“Another Arabian would be fine, I’ve grown to appreciate the mentally challenged,” Bucky snorted.
Liza was about to fire off her next zinger when a bright red pick-up pulled into the ranch. It was pulling a horse trailer with the words “Tennessee Walkers of South Dallas” printed on the side. Dasher, Bucky and Liza knew they were about to have a glimpse of their new family member!
“He’s here he’s here!” Donnie shouted as Robin Mason walked from the truck to the back of the trailer.
“Have any trouble finding us Robin?” Dave asked.
“No, your wife’s directions were perfect. Had some trouble with the traffic on I-20 though, otherwise it was a smooth trip. Guess you guys are ready to see your little boy, I’m sure he is anxious to get out of the trailer.”
Robin opened the back of the trailer and began to back Storm out. He seemed taller and skinnier than the Doyles remembered. He lacked the grace and agility they had expected as he clumsily backed out of the trailer. In a nutshell, he seemed like an ugly duckling and not the swan they had seen at the breeders.
“Storm seems different today.” Reta commented.
“He has always looked a lot more impressive under saddle. Speaking of which, I have his in the tack compartment. Let me get it for you.” Robin replied as she handed Reta Storm’s lead line.
Reta, Dave, and Donnie all looked at one another. Each looked confused and bewildered; all had the same thought in mind. “What in the heck happened to the Storm that we saw on Saturday?”
Donnie walked up to storm and looked him in the eyes. Yes, it was the Storm that he had bonded with on Saturday!
Robin gave Dave the saddle and retrieved Storm’s paperwork from the cab of the truck. The paper work included his medical records, registration, etc. Reta made out a check for the balance of payment and the deal was done. Robin removed her employee’s halter and lead line from Storm and Donnie replaced them with his own. Robin buttoned up the trailer and made her departure.
The family followed Donnie as he led Storm to the barn. Donnie stood to the left side of Storm as they walked. Instead of walking straight ahead, Storm kept leaning into Donnie, forcing him to sway left. Donnie pushed the lead line to the right in an attempt to get Storm to walk in a straight line. Storm repeatedly leaned into Donnie all the way to the barn. It was far more a struggle to lead Storm than it should have been!
Once in the barn, Storm was tied up in the grooming area. He had no patience and obviously disliked being tied. Storm immediately commenced to paw the ground with his front legs. Pawing is a bad habit which can lead to hoof and or leg damage. He also began mouthing anything in the area he could wrap his lips around. This included Donnie! Reta pointed out to Donnie that he should not allow Storm to put his mouth on him. She explained how it could lead to biting. Donnie kept yelling “no Storm” but to no avail. It became very clear to the Doyle family that Storm needed lots of work. He was young and ill mannered. The impatience, pawing, and mouthing, had to go!
“He is a pretty horse and will look sharp when he fills out but he seems to be a little goofy, he must be ok though, since you bought him from someone named Robin.” This was Robbie’s evaluation of Storm.
Dave put Storm’s saddle away and brought the horses in from the pasture. Donnie led Storm to his new stall. Storm immediately went out the back door of the stall to the outside run. It was apparent that Storm did not like to be confined in a stall. Donnie placed 2 flakes (about 10 flakes in a standard bale) of hay in Storm’s hayrack and put 3/4 of a scoop of feed into the feed dish.
Immediately upon hearing the feed hit the dish, Storm made a beeline to the feed. He attacked the food as if he were starving. Donnie’s first thought was “What a honker!”
Storm raised his head from the dish to look at Donnie. It appeared that more food was falling out of Storm’s mouth than was being swallowed. Donnie concluded that the food was falling out of Storm's mouth because of the two missing teeth.
"Perhaps this is why Storm is so skinny, the breeder probably did not know that Storm was losing most of his feed," thought Donnie.
Storm looked down right pitiful. At that very moment Donnie felt an even stronger bond with Storm. He entered the stall, put his arm around Storm's neck and whispered “I love you Storm and I will always be here for you.” He then kissed Storm on the neck. Storm stopped chewing and starred into Donnie’s eyes. Donnie knew that Storm loved him also, and would likewise, always be there for Donnie.
All was quiet in the barn. The Doyles were all up at the house preparing for dinner. Donnie was busy on the phone thanking his grandparents for the gifts. The only noise that could be heard was the occasional crunching of hay or a cat chasing a mouse.
“Hey, what’s your name?’ Dasher asked the newest addition to the barn.
“Are you talking to me?”
“Obviously, whom else could I be talking to?” Dasher said as he quickly grabbed another mouth full of hay.
“Sorry, I’m just a little nervous. This is all new to me.” Storm whispered.
“You will be just fine kid, this is a top notch set-up we have here and you will like it. My name is Dasher, what should we call you? And by the way, you don’t have to whisper.”
“I believe my name is Storm, at least that’s what everyone calls me.”
“Nice to meet you Storm, Liza is the pretty mare on the end and Bucky is in the stall next to you. They keep me between these two for good reasons. The Doyle family owns us. It looks like Donnie, the boy, is your owner. He is a nice kid but knows very little about horses."
“Dasher is the boss and I’m next in charge. Liza is a pain in the rears and she thinks she is the Queen of Sheba. Oh yea, it’s nice meeting you.” Bucky piped up.
“You seem to be a few flakes short of a bale Storm, any chance you might be related to Bucky?” Liza asked.
“Not that I know of, but we might be.”
“I was just kidding. Boy, you are a little slow. Did you fall on your head or something? And by the way, let me make it clear; no one owns me!” Liza shouted.
“Well actually, I have fallen several times. I get tripped up easily.”
“Ok Liza, leave the kid alone, remember what it was like for you your first night here. As I recall, you cried the whole night.” Dasher reminded her.
“I noticed you don’t seem to like your stall and keep going outside to your run. Are you claustrophobic Storm?” Bucky asked.
“The stall is ok, I’m just afraid I will be kept in it all the time like I was before. I never had a run before; it is sure nice to be able to walk outside. I hate being locked up! What is claustrophobic?”
“It’s a fear of Santa Claus.” Liza quipped.
“Oh, then I’m probably not claustrophobic because I don’t even know what Santa Claus is.” Storm replied.
“You don’t need to worry about being locked up Storm; the Doyles will put all of us in the pasture everyday unless it gets too cold or rains real hard. They know how to take care of horses. A better family couldn’t have adopted you. Any problems you may have had in the past are long gone. Now let’s get some sleep. Good night all.” Dasher commented.
Dasher’s little talk helped to relax Storm. Naturally, he was nervous about the move and what he was in store for. "I like this Dasher fellow, not sure about Liza? That Bucky sure has a huge head!" This was the last thing that went through Storm’s mind prior to nodding off.
It was obvious to Dasher that the previous owner must have traumatized Storm. Heck, he hardly knew his own name! A horse was not put on this beautiful earth to be locked up in a stall, day in and day out. Given a little time, Storm would be just fine. He has no patience, can’t stand still for a second, very clumsy, and very naïve. Just a typical teenager!
Reta served the horses their breakfast. One flake of hay and 1/2 scoop feed. As with last night's dinner, Storm gulped it down like there would be no tomorrow. He was certainly a hungry growing boy. Donnie had nailed it on the head. The breeder had under fed storm. They were unaware that Storm was dropping most of his feed. Dasher noticed Storm’s dilemma and directed him to eat over the feed dish. Most of the feed he dropped would not be lost. It worked!
“Will we be going to the pasture today?” Storm asked.
“Yes Storm, We go every day.”
“And will Donnie, the little boy, visit me there?”
“He may, but he has to go to school most of the day.” Dasher again responded.
“What is school?” Storm asked.
“Storm, when we get to the pasture I will answer any question you might have. It is not really appropriate to bother Dasher with trivial questions,” Bucky barked.
“Can it, Jug Head! Leave the kid alone. If he wants to ask Dasher a question it’s up to Dasher to respond. Who died and left you boss?” Liza chided with her usual flare.
“I thought your name was Bucky, do you prefer that I call you Jug Head?” Storm was somewhat puzzled as his 3 new friends all began to laugh.
Reta decided to lead Storm to the pasture last. She was very curious to see how the others would react to Storm invading their pasture. Storm became anxious, he was still in the stall and all the other horses were in the pasture. "Am I to be left all alone again?"
Before Storm had time to work himself into a lather, Reta arrived. She put on his halter and lead line and began to take him to the pasture. Storm was on cloud 9. He was about to run free in a pasture with other horses. No more solitary confinement! Storm’s mind was rushing with excitement. It seemed like forever since he was able to run free. He could not wait to join the others. The walk to the pasture was taking forever! He tried to pick up the pace and found himself pulling ahead of Reta. She was getting angry and screamed, “Whoa Storm,” repeatedly. Reta was becoming fearful that Storm would break free from her and bolt. She had never felt so helpless with a horse before. Luckily for the both of them, Storm sensed Reta’s fear and calmed down.
Once they passed through the gate to the pasture the adrenalin began to rush through Storm’s veins with more vigor. With the lead line still in Reta’s hands Storm reared up on his hind legs. In this position he towered over Reta, which scared the heck out of her. The lead line was stretched to its max and was about to be ripped from Reta’s hands. Just as she was about to release the line, Storm planted his hoofs back on the ground. Reta immediately removed the halter and made a swift exit from the pasture. Storm reared up once again and then galloped off in the direction of the horses across the pasture.
Reta had never felt such fear with a horse. Her heart was pounding and she was stunned. "How in the world would Donnie cope with such an animal? What if Storm behaved like that with Donnie on his back? What are we going to do?" She thought.
After a few minutes Reta was able to compose herself and looked out to the pasture to see how the horses were doing. To her surprise, she spotted the 4 of them grazing together. "Well what do you know; they seem to accept that crazy horse," she thought to herself. After returning the halter and lead to the barn, she went to the house to call Dave. She decided that cleaning the stalls would have to wait. Some decisions concerning Storm had to be made. There was no way she would put up with an out-of-control horse.
“That was one heck of a grand entrance you made Storm. When you reared, it looked like you were on stilts. Jeesh you have long legs!” Liza stated.
“Based on the look on Reta’s face you may be in big trouble Storm. One thing you can never do is threaten humans. Your behavior was unsatisfactory and will not be tolerated in this pasture. If you ever scare my owner Reta like that again I will personally make you wish you hadn’t. Is that clear Storm?” Dasher screamed.
“I never intended to scare or threaten anyone. I was excited and got carried away. I am very Sorry Dasher. I just can’t seem to do anything right! Please forgive me.”
“It’s not for me to forgive you Storm. You need to make it up to Reta. If you continue to misbehave she will not hesitate to get rid of you. You are young, but that is no excuse. There are certain behaviors that no human will tolerate. You must never bite, buck, rear up over, or kick a human. You have violated one of these rules and will be watched very carefully. I’m not trying to scare you; I am trying to help you.” Dasher explained.
With his head hanging low in shame, Storm replied. “I promise to stay in line. I would never bite, buck or kick anyone. I honestly did not think that rearing was a problem. I have seen lots of horses rear.”
“How would you feel if an elephant was rearing over your head Storm? Rearing is fine as long as it’s not on top of someone!” Bucky chided.
“Come on guys let’s not beat this one to death. The kid got excited and messed up; it’s as simple as that. He said it wouldn’t happen again so get off his back,” Liza snorted.
Dasher and Bucky were stunned; they had never heard Liza stick up for anyone. "Is she Sweet on Storm?" they both wondered.
The horses resumed munching on the grass. Storm contemplated how he could make things up to Reta. Dasher and Bucky snickered at the thought that Liza may be attracted to a horse that was not of Arabian bloodlines. Liza thought to herself, "I could sure use a comb out and a manicure."
With the exception of the commotion earlier in the day, it was rather uneventful in the pasture. Storm spent most of the day exploring while everyone else lazily grazed. As usual, Bucky stayed close to Dasher most of the day and Liza grazed near her favorite tree. It is a large mesquite, which offered her plenty of shade.
Liza became thirsty so she made her way to the water trough. She daintily swallowed about a gallon of water. She was careful not to let the water drip from her mouth as she raised her head from the trough. She thought it was uncouth the way all the other horses leave the trough with water pouring from their mouths. The water relieved her thirst but was a little warm for her liking.
“What’s up Liza?” Buzz asked as he landed just forward of her withers (area of the back where the neck and back join).
“Hey Buzz! Not much, we did get a new horse in the pasture. He is the palomino you probably saw him when you flew in. He is young and has much to learn. The family purchased him for the son Donnie. The good news is, at least Donnie won’t be riding me anymore.”
“I did see him and he sure looks familiar. His name wouldn’t happen to be Storm would it?”
“Yes it is. How the heck did you know his name Buzz?”
“Talk about fate, he is the horse I was trying to tell you about the other day.”
“Come on Buzz quit yanking my chain. I’m sure you talked to Bucky or Dasher and they put you up to this.”
“No really Liza. I know it seems like an unbelievable coincidence but he is the horse I was trying to tell you about. I never really met him personally but I know all about him and have seen him may times. I felt sorry for the poor guy; he was kept locked up in the barn most of the time at the breeders.”
“Speak of the devil,” Liza commented as Storm galloped up to them. “You really need to slow down Storm, there are allot of potholes and sharp rocks in this part of the pasture. I would like you to meet Buzz. He is a pretty good dude for a horsefly. He claims he knows you.”
“You’re the Storm from Tennessee Walkers of South Dallas aren’t you? Buzz asked.
“Yes I am. Do I know you?”
“No, but you probably met my cousin Bo Bob, he lives up that way. I just know you by reputation. That really was some stormy night that you were born on. I heard the twister barely missed the barn that night. If it had, they might have named you twister or tornado. Did you bring your saddle with you?” Buzz asked.
“I really don’t remember much about the night I was born. I do remember a great deal of commotion, but I was too young to know what was going on. Well at least I now know how I got my name, I was confused about that. I don’t really have my own saddle that I know of. Why do you ask?”
“Oh, no reason Storm. I just heard you had a real beautiful saddle and I was wondering if it came down with you. I just wanted to see it, that’s all. It has been a real pleasure meeting you Storm. I’ve got to fly. See ya later Liza, goodbye Storm.” And with that, Buzz flew off as if a gang of frogs were chasing after him.