We're going about our daily routines as usual because there is no other option.
We're finding solace in each other's company,
but there's no denying that the herd dynamics have changed.
Hank's shout-outs to Lyle and the time he spends looking for him are diminishing with each passing day. He's eating and drinking and seemingly physically unaffected by the absence of his best buddy, which is a great relief for me.
So we're doing okay, all things considered. These two are going out of their way to make sure of it.
I'm glad to hear that each day is getting better. :o) The silliness of George and Alan has got to make you laugh/smile, but does Hank consider them buddies too and enjoy their company?
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're all getting along well in Lyle's absence. Carving out a new routine can be a challenge. Surely Wynonna keeps everyone in line ; )
ReplyDeleteGeorge and Alan have stepped up to the plate to bring even more joy. I'm glad you and Hank are there for each other.
ReplyDeleteThank goodness! Animals can "teach" us so much.
ReplyDeleteAnimals are tough to read. We have to be careful not to think they have human-like emotions when it comes to death but we just don't know.
ReplyDeleteOh...if you got more hits on your site yesterday than usual...in a political discussion someone commented they hated donkeys. Well, I commented I loved them and referred them here. That'll teach 'em...or maybe they all thought I was crazy and ignored it. LOL
Big hugs to everyone. And those 2 sillys at the bottom --- so glad they are there to make you smile!
ReplyDeletePoor Hank, he's going to miss his buddy for a while I'm afraid. We had a similar situation with Mellon and Erik. I think Mellon is still a little depressed about losing his friend and it's going on 2 years now. Hope Hank gets back to his old self soon. The little guys are sure to help with their antics.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful pictures of Hank, he's so handsome.
I know how hard it is to go on. After I lost Beauty last summer, I was in a fog for weeks. Hubby took me on a vacation to Arizona and I don't remember most of it. What was odd was that I was the most comfortable up at the ranch, just doing chores and working with the horses. It was when I was alone at home that I was at my lowest.
ReplyDeleteOur animals give us solace when our hearts are troubled, and those two burros are a gift from God to bring joy with their antics. I hope your heart heals soon.
ReplyDeleteIt is amazing how animals do help us get through the tough times. And we help them. Don't care what nay sayers say, animals do feel. They are wonderful therapy. When I am having one of those moments, it's outside to get some donkey/horse therapy. Each day gets easier and easier.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear that you and Hank are doing better. I'm sure the Donkey's provide plenty of entertainment to keep your mind off of it. Hank is such a beauty!
ReplyDeleteIt's always good to have some comic relief.
ReplyDeleteHang in there, we're with you all.
I am glad to hear you and he are comforting to each other. I thought that might help. He will never forget anymore than you ever will. It's a testament to Lyle that it be so.
ReplyDeleteGoerge and Alan are providing the entertainment as usual.
ReplyDeleteHorses are such herd animals. I hope, when you are able, you will consider finding a friend for Hank. It's hard I know but you love animals and Hank will be happier with a friend.
ReplyDeleteIt's good to read that you and Hank are getting through the days a little easier as time passes... and I'm so happy that Hank is eating and drinking normally. Those donkey boys are priceless! Always have been, but I'm sure especially so now!
ReplyDeleteWe continue to think of you and send good thoughts.
The thought of Hank calling out for Lyle hurts my heart.........I'm so glad he is feeling a little better each day and I am SO happy that you have your buddies to keep you busy and smiling !
ReplyDeleteIt sure does change the herd dynamics when one is gone. I feel so bad for Hank, calling for Lyle. Breaks my heart. I wish there was a way to explain it to them. George and Alan seem to be doing a good job at keeping everyone cheerful. Such a tremendous loss though. Sending you big hugs from the gang over here.
ReplyDeleteOnce again, a beautiful post. My thoughts are with you all ... I'm glad that the burros have such a good sense of humor ... they made good use of the traffic cone!
ReplyDeleteI wish I could wrap my arms around Hank's neck and just hold on.... Hurray for George and Alan - when they're making you smile, I know you're not crying...
ReplyDeleteDo they always fight over their toys? Silly boys.
ReplyDeleteKeeping you in our thoughts - he's a beautiful boy and I'm glad he's a comfort to you.
ReplyDeleteIf only we could understand how animals grief. But they do - no doubt. Touching and lovely pictures of Hank there. Thanks for the last one too!
ReplyDeleteI know that neither you nor Hank will ever forget Lyle and hope that with each passing day it gets just a little bit easier. Man, we just love those burro brothers and are so glad that they're there to make sure you're doing okay.
ReplyDeleteIt's the little day to day stuff that keeps you getting out of bed, putting one foot in front of the other.
ReplyDeleteUntil one day you notice the sun is still shining.
Donkeys make everything better - such comedians! Hank is a beauty. I like big Skewbalds :).
ReplyDeleteI know how hard it must be. It takes a looooong time to truly recover enough not to feel pain and sadness every day. Eventually the emptiness will fill up to where you can again smile at the memories.
ReplyDeleteMy heart goes out to you and Hank.
Oh Hank. Looking for his friend, which is what we all do when we've lost someone.
ReplyDeleteGood thing God made donkeys to give the grief-striken some comedic relief.
What a relief that Hank is eating and drinking and staying healthy. I think of you guys every time I go out to the barn. This will bring you two so much closer. He has such compassionate eyes. Will you remind us of the story of how you got Hank?
ReplyDeleteTime for another horse to join the 7MSN Ranch. NOt that anyone could replace Lyle. Hope to see a serious monument to Lyle out in the pasture at some point.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you have a few comedians there. My dog is my constant clown. Whenever I've lost an animal, it amazes me how so many parts of my daily routine were affected by their presence. It leaves a hole that takes awhile to get used to.
ReplyDeleteBaby steps. Every day brings new purpose, and thank God for the burrito brothers - for laughter IS the best medicine :D
ReplyDeleteThey say....time heals all wounds. But the time can drag so it's great you all have each other to hug. The clowning around on the 'burrito brothers' part certainly makes it pass more quickly.
ReplyDeleteSpecial healing nickers coming from the minis in Washington...
Animals do long for their own species.....have you thought yet about getting Hank a new horse friend? Just a thought...
ReplyDelete((hugs))
ReplyDeleteHerd dynamics are a fascinating thing. I saw the marked shift every time one of my foster donkeys was adopted out in 2008 and how the remaining donks would behave and posture for standing.
ReplyDeleteI can't think about Hank being lonely or sad though - it makes my heart hurt. Gotta love George and Alan even more for trying to fill the void.
((hug))
Oh I know these must be very hard times for you and for Hank. I'm so glad you have each other, and those two dear sweet other guys...George and Alan. They all know, don't they? Well, how could they not. I send you (((((((HUGS)))))))
ReplyDeleteDon't think I've ever told you how handsome I think Hank is...what a hunk! And you do realize that there are a LOT of great horses that need a good home, I'm sure. I know he's not "alone", but he is feeling third-wheelish, I'm sure. Well, it won't be hard to find a lovely someone to share the feedbag with, that's for sure...
ReplyDeleteDo you think the pain of the loss is proportional to the joy of the life? I do. It's so wonderful to have pets. They are a joy and comfort.
ReplyDeleteIt's so hard to see them miss and call out for their buddies. I know each day will get better too, but it can be hard. The burro brothers are just what the doctor ordered to help keep the smiles going.
ReplyDelete