April 16

I brought Two Step back to the rescue barn today form the boarding barn. Nitro and he were good friends at home and this was the first time they've seen each other in a few years. Nitro was in his solitary confinement paddock because he's been so bad to the other horses lately. I opened the gate to let Two Step in an adjoining paddock and be with Page and the pony. Well, as soon as Two Step saw Nitro he ran to the gate and he and Nitro changed breaths. Two Step immediately began nuzzling and biting Nitro on the ribs and back. Nitro enjoyed every minute. I decided to open Nitro's gate and let the two old friends be together. Nitro, anxious to see Two Step, tried to get out before Two Step got in. I had to chase him back and try to coax Two Step in. Every time I opened the gate to let Two Step in Nitro came over to the gate. I threw mud at him he just pinned his ears. Then I picked up a stick and threatened him and he reared to knock it and my arm off. I finally got him back and opened the gate again and Nitro tried to ram through the opening. I quickly closed it and Nitro went into it locking his two front legs and falling onto his knees bending the gate. There he was kneeling, tangled in the gate. I was standing helpless, holding Two step's lead, evaluating the situation waiting for him to panic and run off with the gate stuck in his legs. Nitro realized his fate and simply got up gate and all then slowly unlocked his legs and walked away. I told him that's what happens when he doesn't listen and opened the gate and Two Step walked in and he and Nitro walked off together, probably discussing the lost time, and recent episode of the gate. Nitro could have easily broke his legs or ran off with the gate cutting his tendons and skin but he some how got himself up from his knees. I have never seen a horse get up without extending his legs and jerking his weight. It was likely the most athletic feat I have ever witnessed a horse do. He used brute force straightening the bent gate and raised his weight all without the use of his front legs or the slightest bit of panic. It was as if the entire scene was being played back in reverse. I will never cease to be amazed by him.