Harley Darling

Harley was my best friend, we were rarely very far apart. He liked to play pranks on me and I liked to tease him about his looks by messing up his mane. I would say that he was all looks and no brains, but that wasn't true.

Although you can see from the pictures he was indeed very handsome. Harley was also very smart and brave. He loved finding new things to investigate and toys to play with. Harley also thought his paddock was a "no fly zone", if a horsefly landed on him he ran to the paddock thinking the fly would have to leave...we would laugh at him for that.

Harley was always trying to get me to try new things. Like helping the DOR with her mucking. One evening when I was eating hay Harley took the blue tarp that the DOR had hung up to get me used to it and he started sliding it up and down the panel...I ran and he giggled at me. Harley told me I was a bit of a "girlie man".

I found that I had more courage when Harley was by my side. I could even manage to eat treats off of the blue tarp. If Harley could do something I would give it my best try. He was a patient teacher and I appreciated that. On his good days Harley would challenge me to a race, darn if he didn't beat me every time. He liked to play "bite face" and we would stand for hours grooming each other.

Harley also taught me there are times when you just have to express yourself. That a butt turned in the right direction would let the DOR know that we were not amused.

A well timed raspberry is also a good DOR training tool.

I always made sure that Salty would allow Harley to eat all he wanted. Harley and I liked to dine together...I am still keeping Salty out of Harley's spot at the hay bale.

I will miss you Harley. Who is going to tease me, make sure I learn to be brave, and help me teach the DOR manners? I am going on my first trail ride with the DOR this afternoon...keep an eye on us my friend, I plan on making you proud.

I know that you are now running on four good legs, looking mighty fine.

Enjoy your day and don't forget to hug your DOR