12/06/2025
This morning we said goodbye to one of the great ones...
Another lifelong schoolie, Toby spent most of his life serving others at Creditview Stables, and retired with us when they closed their doors in 2022. If there was ever a horse who deserved a happy retirement, it was him. Kind, patient and giving, this gentle giant gave his all over and over. He was safe, reliable and kind and it made my heart happy to watch him spend his final years living happy and expectation free. Toby continued to rule the "gerrie" paddock with a gentle iron fist until his final day, and dedicated most of his daily energy to his devotion to Penny. He loved her with all his heart and could often be found standing guard a few feet away while she napped in the sunshine. I know she will miss him dearly...
Despite many old age ailments, Toby lived comfortably in his last years. When we could no longer offer him comfort, he left us as they all should; after a cozy night in a warm barn and a leisurely breakfast with his special lady. Penny faithfully stood by him in his final minutes and the peace of those moments will always stay with me. Leaving this world surrounded by love is something they all deserve.
When I took on many of the Creditview horses a few years ago, I guess I knew this day would come. A time when we would slowly start to say goodbye to great horses one by one. I guess what I didn't really realize was how hard it would be... Because these aren't just horses. They are history and memories, and childhoods. Looking back on it now, they represent an era that was so important, so influential, and so unique. They reflect a period of time that we cannot get back, but one that shaped so many of us. You have heard me sing the praises of school horses before, and I will continue to do so for each and every one of them. They are the glue, and most of us simply wouldn't be the people we are without them... I know I wouldn't.
Today was a really hard day.... but Toby, I know I speak for so many people when I say thank you for the years and the patience and the memories. It was a true honor to safeguard your final years and to be there for your last moments. Rest easy my friend...❤️
