09/09/2026
We had a going-away party for Phil yesterday. We’ve seen a lot of horses come and go over the years, but saying goodbye to this one hits differently. Phil taught me so much.
After getting kicked in the head by a horse in 2020, I was convinced that any horse acting up was out to hurt me. For a long time, I could barely walk into a paddock without having a panic attack. Phil helped change that. He slowly helped me rebuild my confidence and earn back my trust. Even when he was feeling feisty—especially on crisp mornings—I learned how to stay calm and grounded.
He still kept me humble, though. Just last week, this 30-year-old Thoroughbred decided to act like a young stud, barging out of his stall and tearing around the farm in search of his girlfriend. After a few minutes of showing off, he let me catch him and walk him out to his paddock like nothing happened.
I’m truly going to miss him—and his wonderful human, Ginny! We have been blessed to know them!
