It's Rex Manning Day!

Everyone, meet Rex.

Boots with the fur!

Rex, meet ... everyone.

Long-time blog followers may remember Sampson the Percheron who came to live with me a couple of years ago. Thankfully, Sampson's owner did not buy ANOTHER horse at auction ... but her friend did. And that is how Rex came about. *wink wink* (I know she reads this blog so I tease haha).

When Rex was first purchased, the horse trader told my friends that he was a 6 year old gelding. (Shire x Fresian x QH cross of some sort).

That was wrong.

At the time Rex was actually only 2 ... and a stallion .. AND a cryptorchid at that! So after "brain surgery" and a lengthy trip to KY from St. Louis, MO, this gentleman will be spending a couple of months with me learning the basics and building some muscle.

He has been nothing but a joy to be around since he first got here. He already lunges in side reins, crossties, baths, stands quietly, you name it. He is quite green under saddle (very little steering ...) but very quiet and willing. He will walk, trot and canter.

WHOA!! Wild stallion!!!

No, the camera did not distort this photo. His head is actually that big.

If I had to pick out his "issues" I would say that he needs muscle and fitness (duh) and he is a little timid about the washrack and fly spray. Those issues do not concern me one bit as they will solve themselves with time and repetition.

My initial assessment of Rex after almost 2 weeks is that he is going to be a FANTASTIC kids horse, or a timid rider horse. He is so so quiet. NOTHING spooks him. He does not panic. He does not get tense or nervous. Yes, he needs miles and an education but he could do just about anything someone wanted. Parades. Lessons. Lower level dressage. Trails. Heck if I had the equipment I'd break him to drive! He would be good at that, too.

He has won over numerous people at the barn with his adorable hair do and quiet nature. He is friendly, easy to catch and easy to handle. I am telling you, this is such a good boy!

makeover!

Hillary from Equestrian at Hart was out at the barn today and braided Rex's mane for me! I think it looks fantastic. The horse has a TON of hair. His tail alone makes everyone at the barn gawk. lol. As do his adorable feathers. Thanks Hillary!!!

Hillary the Hair Master at work.

I do foresee miles of hill walking with him as he really lacks a lot of muscle. I am hoping the KY grass helps put some pounds on him, too. I suspect he is entering a growth spurt as he is so awkward and clumsy at the moment.

Reminds me of another gelding I know when he was 3 .... and 4.