22/08/2026
I always told Aachen that one day I’d buy a place of my own where he could eventually retire. It was one of those dreams I had in my head for years, and somehow it actually became a reality.
So, days like yesterday feel pretty special. Being able to jump on him and head out for a nice, slow trek around the block, with Bowie, John and Lucia alongside us, on what felt like the most gorgeous spring afternoon.
Aachen is 30 now (his actual birthday is December 26th, although his official horse birthday is August 1st), but he still gets lightly ridden a few times a week. And honestly, I think this is a big part of what has kept him going. He absolutely LOVES hacking. Trotting along the grass verges, stopping for a snack while John and co caught up.
I’m hoping we’ll continue having little hacks like this for as long as he enjoys them. And when the day eventually comes for him to properly retire, he is certainly going to be one very pampered old man, with plenty of love from us and all of our students who adore him!
Horses really are miracle workers. I’d been feeling a bit down and exhausted, and like I hadn’t properly left the house in days. But a ride, some fresh air and time with my best old mate, and I came home feeling like myself again ❤️
