Recueing Horses - Finding Trust

Well it has been since mid April that Annie's Hope, Courage and Heath Bar were rescued by Solid Rock Therapeutic Riding Services. 

As you may remember, our family had been looking for projects to help surviving families and returning veterans who suffer from PTSD as a result of the the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars.

We looked into equine therapy as it appeared to be very successful for veterans with PTSD and Melissa and I have thought it might be a benefit for surviving families from these enduring wars.  Over the last several months, Melissa and I have been in training with Shannon from the ranch.

To start, you have to understand, I am petrified of horses. They are big and intimidating. What I have learned so far is this is an adventure in finding trust. It is about me learning to trust them as the horses are learning to trust me. Trust is a hard thing to find when you are broken by life whether you are a broken horse or  person.

Th good news is that I am learning to trust these big, 1,500 lb beauties and they are learning to trust me. The last couple of times, I have been grooming Heath Bar. The first time I entered his stall  when he first arrived at Solid Rock, I was jumping out of it as soon as I entered as he pinned his ears back and came at me and was going to bite my hiney.

We have come a long way since that time. I can groom him and I attempt to pick his hooves. That is a challenge, but I am making progress. They reality is I find peace when I am there. I see why this is a good thing for hurting people and I am blessed to be part of this adventure. I hope others will find this experience as well in the future as the horses progress in their healing and learn to find trust as well.

Help Needed for Ohio Gold Star Mother

Dear Friends,


I found out through my military connections that an Ohio Gold Star mother is in desperate need of a vehicle. The S. N. Warner Family Association would like to raise $5,000 to provide this mother a car so she can have transportation to get employment. She was left in a dire situation after the loss of her son. The mother was forced to leave her son’s (KIA last month) home after he died. She was staying there with two of the soldier’s other siblings, taking care of the house. When he passed, she had to leave as she was left with no resources. Catholic Charities has offered her temporary housing, but she desperately needs a car.

Click link below to Donate!

 http://is.gd/F6HSVS
God Bless,

Scott Warner

A Poem to Ponder

As I prepare for the upcoming Memorial Day events I ran across this poem. It reminds me of the moments that haunt me and my family. I am aware of a sadness that follows us forever.

They Lay At Final Rest
by Del "Abe" Jones

They lie in flag draped coffins
War's time for them, is done
But, for their family and friends
The battle has just barely begun.

Some may have had babies born
That they will never get to know
Some, fiancees wait to marry them
But fate, would not let it be so.

Some parents bury their children
Not right, in the scheme of things
Just one, of the many horrors
That mankind's warring brings.

They fought for their god and country
They proudly answered duty's call
Along with all their comrades in arms
But, sadly, these just gave their all.

The haunting sounds of Taps
And a three volley, gun salute
An Honor Guard in uniform
At attention, standing mute.

The flag will be folded reverently
Presented to those left behind
A small token from a grateful nation
But, relief from grief is hard to find.

Their name added to a roll of Heroes
With all those who have gone before
And there seems to be no ending
To all those to be sacrificed to war.

Still working on the book.

Just wanted to give you an update on the process of the book I am writing. I have outlined my chapters and trying to write five pages a week. It is an interesting process. I have gone back to the past and have some good laughs as I remember fond memories. I think I would like the title to be, A Gift for Heath. I chose this because Heath wanted to write a book about his life and writing this book is my gift back to him. I hope it will inspire others on their journeys through life. If you have any stories about Heath pass them on to me as I may use them in the book. Have a great week! Scott

Remembering Fondly

I can't believe it's been four years since Heath graduated from boot camp. We were all so proud and excited to watch him graduate from boot camp. Little did we know then that you would die as a hero almost a year from your graduation. Today I remember fondly the smiles, hugs, photos, new dress blue uniforms and your coming home for Thanksgiving. I am and will always be so proud of you Heath. The poem below is sort of a tradition that I am going to post every November 18.

Heath, My Son

Graduation from Boot Camp (November 18, 2005)

I get to see my son today,It’s four months since he has gone away, He’s different now, he’s not all mine, He’s a U.S. Marine, the finest kind. The little boy that I once newHas now become a man that’s true,He loves and hurts like you and meBut now he doesn’t let me see. He’s brave, tougher, smarter too,But remember my son…I still need you.I need to know your well and fine, and Hear you laugh from time to time, or Shed a tear or rant and rave…You don’t always have to be so brave. So take God’s hand he’ll lead the way He’ll keep you safe each day I pray, You’ll walk with him where heroes tread,But don’t feel dread, feel blessed instead You have the love all around,So make it right, your judgments sound. A man you are…But my son you’ll be,Forever and eternity. Love, Mom A special poem from Melissa to Heath at boot camp graduation. Author-Anonymous

Thinking of you today and remembering fondly your bootcamp graduation which was two years ago today. We love you and miss. Our heats ache every day but the love doesn't end. Remembering fondly your special day.

Love, Dad and Mom