Healing

Hi Everyone,

It’s taken me a minute or two to figure out what to write here. The first few months of 2026 have been tough on my family. While I have every reason to believe that this cloud will pass, I do want to send some love to anyone else who’s experiencing loss, grief, or any kind of challenge that’s testing your strength. I feel you.

Last week, feeling blue, I took myself to 13 Hands to soak up love. I spent the afternoon with Wendi, wandering in and out of paddocks, talking with her, hugging donkeys, introducing a few shy horses to the joy of neck scratches, and detangling the manes of a couple of proud mares.

Wendi captured a few of these moments on her phone’s camera–images that, in the days since, have reminded me of how healing it is to surround yourself with those who can sense what you’re going through. Not just people, but animals.

At 13 Hands, you’ll find rescues who have the capacity to show up for you. Some are best at eliciting a smile from you, or at least a roll of your eyes at their antics. Wynter, for example, all dappled in his gray and white coat, is up for play whenever you are. He’ll join you at the fence or in the field and find a way to nibble your shoelaces while you scratch his back. Spicy and Salty, also–two young geldings who’ll stop by for a gentle greeting before taking off in their field, showing off their athleticism with bucks and kicks and rears. Such joy.

You’ll also discover the ones who are willing–even eager–to share your sadness, to take on at least some of the burden you’re carrying. They approach you with a look in their eyes that communicates empathy, along with the strength you might be lacking in that moment.

Daisy, for example, is a standard donkey who has a spirit that exudes love in its purist form. During our visit, Wendi and I walked into Daisy’s paddock, which she shares with seven other donkeys. I sat down on my stool and said hello from pretty far away. Daisy was facing away from us, resting with her girl pals, Maggie and Madeline. When she sensed our presence, she turned around to look at us. Wendi and I greeted her as we always greet each of them–by name–and, as if driven by a mission, Daisy walked right over and placed her giant-eared head against my chest. There she stayed for quite some time. I have no other words for this experience, except I believe that Daisy has the capacity to heal. She really is love in its purest form.

Marylou has said many times that 13 Hands heals horses who often heal humans. She is so spot on.

Here are some of my favorite healers.

For make-you-smile entertainment: Wynter, Rascal, Spicy, Salty, Speedy, Domino, Regalo, Bo, Milagro, Snookie, Dash

For heart-swelling cuddles: Daisy, Winnie, Andie, Buddy, Jolie, Hollywood, Cleo, Lorenzo, Duncan, Cecilia, Blue Moon, Rex, Luke, Flash

I hope when you need it most, you’ll find your way to them.

Much love,

Karen