Horseplay Farm’s retirement party, open house is Saturday

    Most people look forward to the day when they can finally retire and relax after many years of dedicated service. Of course, if you are a horse you don’t have that forethought. 
    Saturday, Sept. 25 marks the official day of retirement for two of Horseplay Farm’s  lesson horses. Green pastures and easy trail rides will fill the days of these two patient saints, Digger and Blodwen. They may not be Kentucky Derby winners, national champions, or even the slightest bit fancy looking, but to the non-verbal autistic boy when asked who he wanted to ride that day shouted out “Digger!”, or to the middle aged breast cancer survivor who spent hours meditating in Blodwen’s quiet strength while brushing her shiny coat, they are far more than prize-winning animals; they are the creatures that touched souls in a very special way.  
    Old age has stiffened the joints and slowed the step,  making the daily task of carrying around students of all ages more challenging. Owner of Horseplay Farm and instructor Amy Woods Metherell said, “It has been a very tough decision letting these two horses go. They have been my faithful and dependable co-workers for many years. I have watched them patiently take care of their riders, helping build skill and confidence in people from all walks of life. No matter what mistakes were made or unpredictable situations came up, I could always depend on them to remain calm and accepting. I will miss them both very deeply.”
    New pastures to relax in have been chosen very carefully.  
    “I owe it to these horses to be sure they will be well cared for and safe” said Woods Metherell. “They have been a big part of my heart as well as my business. It is time, though, that they get to enjoy their golden years like any hard working individual should. I am thrilled they each have a great place to do nothing but eat and be horses!”
    Of course life will go on at Horseplay Farm with some of the same familiar, safe horses, but there are a few new faces as well. It won’t be long before the new guys build up the huge following that Digger and Blodwen have accumulated in their fan clubs which literally span from coast to coast. They will be just as loved and appreciated for their own unique talents and gifts they have to offer their riders as the horses that came before.  
    The public is welcome to attend the party and open house from 2-4 p.m. There will be food, games, slide shows and pony rides from 2:30-3 p.m.
    “Come celebrate with the retirees, greet the new horses, or just check out a horse farm for the afternoon,” said Woods Metherell.
    To find out more about Horseplay Farm and riding lessons contact Woods Metherell at 532-2561 or e-mail rumor55@hotmail.com.