It seems every stable has one of them. The horse who charms everyone, gets into everything, and somehow manages to make your chores take twice as long. For us, we actually have two. But today, I’m going to be showcasing one of the farm favourites- RJ.
RJ is a Hanoverian Thoroughbred cross and was born in May 2007. He was given the name “Run and Jump” (abbreviated to RJ) from his original home. It seems there may have been a reason for it. He certainly loves to gallivant around the fields and jump the fences when he wants some fresh grass. RJ’s a substantial guy with quite a presence about him, making him seem even taller than the 16.2hh he sticks at. For the non-horsey people, that means he measures up at 66″ at the withers (top of his shoulders). Despite his stature, he’s basically an oversized puppy dog who insists on being involved in absolutely everything.
Fixing a fence? RJ will gladly carry off your tools for you. Hanging a gate? Don’t worry, he’ll test it before you even get the hinges tightened. Shoveling manure? Obviously, the wheelbarrow is the perfect scratching post. Around here, we needn’t ask, “What’s RJ up to?” so much as, “What’s RJ helping with today?”
RJ has been with me since he was a long yearling, so we’ve had plenty of years of chaos…errr….memories together. He’s endlessly curious, incredibly sweet, and, admittedly, sometimes a bit of a pain in the butt- but always in the most lovable way.
When he’s not “helping” me with farm projects, RJ can usually be found horsing around with his best buddy Sherlock, while Lady looks on with the patience of a saint. Together, they’re quite the trio, though RJ is usually the ringleader of the shenanigans.
Carrots are his absolute favourite treat, and he has a sixth sense for detecting when someone has them hidden in a pocket. But don’t be fooled by the puppy-like antics — RJ is also a stunning mover, a total show-stopper when he gets going. He’s proof that beauty, brains, and a big helping of mischief can all come wrapped up in one (very large) package.
RJ may drive me a little crazy at times, but life on the farm just wouldn’t be the same without him. He’s the horse who makes us laugh, keeps us on our toes, and reminds us that farm life is never boring.
Stay tuned – RJ’s buddies, Lady and Sherlock, will be making their introductions soon along with the rest of the herd. But for now, RJ wanted to make sure he got the first spotlight (naturally). He is my special boy, after all!
Discover more from The Gentle Table
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
[…] the fences questionable, and your wheelbarrows toppled over. Around here, that horse is Sherlock, RJ’s partner-in-crime and one of the main reasons I can’t turn my back for too […]