09/09/2026
Thinking about what my old friend Jerry Lee created ! He left the Legacy of Astin Creek Rescue Ranch ! Jerry Lee was an old soul and the first horse we ever rescued . When he got here he had severe EPM that we treated daily with meds and some light movements. Some people say they are yard art , I would completely disagree. He quickly became the leader of the herd. He at first was very resistant to any attention. He had good days and bad days and he was a lot of work but worth every second.
We quickly became very close. On the good days he would show off and was a very very proud horse. On the bad days he would rest against me. Many many times I would softly sing “ Lean on me” it seemed to calm him. He was the old horse that would walk with me without a lead rope just to stay close, he trusted me enough that if he was laying down he would lay his head in my lap.
He absolutely hated thunderstorms and fireworks. If that happened he would briefly forget about his epm and run across the pasture like a 2 year old stud. Many times I would be out in the thunderstorm soaked because I was where he found safety and comfort.
What did he love? He loved Amanda and I, the donkeys, bananas (a lot ) , cool mornings, nice fresh green grass, Cutter and Comanche ( his pasture mates), and occasionally goosing a goat or barn cat 🤣
Only horse people really know the love and work involved. It’s a very very special thing that your extremely lucky if you ever get to live with a horse like Jerry Lee.
We now have,
7 horses with a foal on the way
3 donkeys
A pony
6 mini ponies
3 goats
A barn cat
2 bloodhounds
And a momma c**n named Coonie we are feeding lol
Almost all are rescues ( except a few)
Jerry Lee saved them all. We have been fortunate to be able to do what we do but if it weren’t for Jerry Lee then Astin Creek Rescue would likely not exist.
It’s took a while to really talk about Jerry Lee. I mowed the area where he was laid to rest a few days ago. Since I mowed that area Comanche has been staring at it neighing. I’m convinced since she saw me take him there she thinks she should see him. She’s a mom and has that instinct so she always stayed right by his side.
I seem to gravitate towards the ones that need me most and I think that’s why Jerry Lee and I were so close. I guess I needed him as much as he needed me. He taught me to slow down a little and spend time with what makes you feel the most at peace.
Luckily we have had all the others to keep us moving forward and carrying on Jerry Lee’s legacy. Poet has consumed our whole summer waiting on this baby, Quilliam, Peppermint, Dusty, Comanche, Cutter, and our newest arrival Lilly have kept us busy.
Jerry Lee will always be the mascot here and will never be forgotten.
