08/06/2026
Today was Aella’s first little adventure away from the place she was born. Just a ten minute drive to the sea, but a whole new world to explore. And Havana, as always, was the perfect role model.
The moment her feet touched the water, she told us exactly how she felt about it: she wanted to go further, deeper, towards the horizon.
Quite spontaneously, I decided to climb onto her back to give her more freedom to roam. Ba****ck, in a halter. The first time I have ever sat on her – so simple and natural, no questions, just trust.
Aella stayed close at first, then gradually discovered that the sea was rather wonderful too. Watching the two of them together, I felt such deep gratitude for Havana. She is soft without being fragile. Sensitive without being anxious. Calm without ever being dull. There is a strength about her that is difficult to put into words. And as a mother, she is everything I could have hoped for. Patient, caring and deeply present, introducing Aella to the world one experience at a time.
I often look at her and see the familiar traces she shares with her half brother Jaquetão – the horse I dreamed of for so many years. The same kindness, steadiness, the feeling that everything will be alright.
Borrowing a mare for breeding is in many ways an act of trust. Today, standing in the sea with Havana beneath me and Aella beside us, I was reminded of how lucky we are that she came into our lives.
Thank you, Havana.
For carrying your daughter into the world with such grace, and for showing her how beautiful it can be. 🤍