two months later

May I Cash Your Chex's breeder has cashed our check:

Brad now officially owns Padame! She is getting picked up by MJK Horse Transportation at her home in Washington the week of February 8th and then hauled to our trainer in Wisconsin. We do not have specific dates yet. I can only imagine the coordination and timing involved in hauling multiple animals long distance from multiple locations, along with the unexpected. These haulers are reputable and we know them personally. No doubt more information will be shared as plans progress. Unfortunately the Midwest is getting hit with an extended Winter weather pattern that may delay transportation. We can absolutely wait for safety reasons.

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I would be remiss if I didn't say we completely lucked out with all the wonderful people we have had the pleasure of dealing with throughout this lengthy process. 

First and foremost is Padame's breeder, who turned out to be very genuine. Vickie was kind and responsive even while juggling a busy work/life. She is still providing things that go above and beyond expectations. Clearly a good human who loves and knows horses. We both wish we could meet her in person!! Her vet at Deer Park Vet Clinic and staff were also great to deal with. I am curious to see how/if she will continue her breeding program, with an outside stallion or find another gem to own (Padame's much loved sire passed away May 2020). Whatever she is doing with her breeding program, she is doing it right. One (super cute!) filly that is a full sister to her personal riding mare is being held back, the other four 2020 colts/fillies sold. 

Our vet also went above and beyond to assure we are purchasing a healthy horse that is physically built to handle what it will take to show in the AQHA Ranch Riding circuit. We appreciate the extra time both of the vets took reviewing x-rays and connecting with each other. It sealed the deal.

The last horse we purchased was Cierra, in 2010. We are excited to add to our equine family and meet Brad's new girl in-person!! 

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For a while Brad was set on changing the filly's barn name to Spicy, but from what we can tell from afar that name doesn't fit her. For now, her barn name will remain Padame. Hopefully a more fitting name that doesn't require repeating, followed by an explanation, that we can relate to, will reveal itself once Brad spends time getting to know his new horse. 

We both think Padame is a mix of Nemo and Cierra combined. Whatever unique personality she has will shine through and enrich our horse journey ~ especially Brad's dream of showing.

I am looking forward to taking (and sharing) photos of his new blonde beauty!!