Big Red and JR upate - Small steps, BIG progress

When Big Red and JR arrived at BellaSoul Farm, they needed much more than food. They needed time, patience, consistency, and a chance to simply feel safe again.

Over the past week, we've been focusing on the basics—good nutrition, medication, deworming, grooming, and lots of quiet time together. Healing doesn't happen overnight, but every day I'm seeing small signs that tell me we're moving in the right direction.

Today I ordered a weight tape so I can begin tracking JR's progress with actual measurements. I already feel like he's starting to fill out, but I want measurable evidence so I can monitor his journey and make sure we're headed in the right direction. Sometimes it's the little things that remind us just how far we've come.

We're also working closely with our veterinarian to monitor JR's Cushing's medication. So far, he's tolerating it very well, which is wonderful to see. In a few more weeks, we'll gradually increase his dosage to the full therapeutic amount. Cushing's disease is something he'll need medication for throughout the rest of his life, but I'm already seeing encouraging changes. He has more energy, a brighter expression, and each day he seems a little stronger.

One of my favorite moments today happened during grooming. Both Big Red and JR stood quietly while I brushed them completely untied. That may not sound like much, but trust isn't built in one big moment—it's built through hundreds of little ones. Every calm interaction tells them they're safe, respected, and cared for.

Next on the agenda is giving Big Red a much-needed spa day. His tail is desperately overdue for a good wash, and those stubborn poop knots have to go! Rescue isn't always glamorous, but these simple acts of care help restore comfort, dignity, and trust.

In another couple of weeks, once they've had more time to settle in, I'll begin evaluating whether Big Red and JR might be a good fit as Horse Teachers in our equine-assisted learning programs. There will be no pressure or expectations—we'll let them show us who they are. Not every horse enjoys this kind of work, and that's okay. Their well-being will always come first.

I truly believe every horse has a purpose. I am hopeful that Big Red and JR will discover theirs here at BellaSoul Farm. Whether they become Horse Teachers, simply ambassadors for resilience, or spend the rest of their lives surrounded by love and good care, they are already reminding me that healing happens one meal, one brush stroke, and one moment of trust at a time.

Thank you to everyone who has supported their journey through donations, encouragement, prayers, and kind words. Your generosity has made it possible to begin to provide the nutrition, veterinary care, medications, and supplies these boys need to heal. We have a long way to go.

We're only at the beginning of their story, but I can't wait to share each step of the journey with you.

One day at a time. One act of kindness at a time. One beautiful life changed at a time.