Loan Dilemma

This speaks volumes

Not because she's got a free range childhood or because it's unsafe or whatever, but because she's on her own.

Sounds like the parents aren't going to be interested or involved even if she has the pony.

I really feel for the kid

I don't know... I loaned a horse at that age and got the bus there and back every weekend. My parents didn't come with me - they weren't particularly horsey. When we did eventually buy a horse and kept it at the same yard, they weren't 'involved' then either - doesn't mean they weren't interested, or I felt in any way abandoned!
 
I don't know... I loaned a horse at that age and got the bus there and back every weekend. My parents didn't come with me - they weren't particularly horsey. When we did eventually buy a horse and kept it at the same yard, they weren't 'involved' then either - doesn't mean they weren't interested, or I felt in any way abandoned!

Yes, a bus - 2 days a week

Not a 6am walk in the dark midwinter alone every single day

That sounds bleak and lonely
 
An unaccompanied, 40 minute bus ride with a change and wait at the bus station twice a day in the dark midwinter sounds bleak and lonely if you say it like that, too.

I don't think her mum not coming to the yard on a particular weekend speaks volumes about their interest or lack thereof.
 
An unaccompanied, 40 minute bus ride with a change and wait at the bus station twice a day in the dark midwinter sounds bleak and lonely if you say it like that, too.
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all a case of perspective really. My walks to my pony by torchlight before school weren't bleak and lonely because I wanted to have a pony, and being responsible for it was part of the deal. I looked forward to seeing her in the morning. when I had saved up enough pocket money I had a walkman and sung along to my fave tunes on the way :p it doesn't have to be awful :)
 
all a case of perspective really. My walks to my pony by torchlight before school weren't bleak and lonely because I wanted to have a pony, and being responsible for it was part of the deal. I looked forward to seeing her in the morning. when I had saved up enough pocket money I had a walkman and sung along to my fave tunes on the way :p it doesn't have to be awful :)
That's what I mean! I didn't find my bus ride or lack of accompanying parent in any way awful, I loved riding and being independent. I was just making the point that you can make something sound awful if you say it in an awful way - and that doesn't mean it is!
 
THEY HAVE BOUGHT HER!!!! Got a message out of the blue from mum saying dad had 'finally relented' and asking for bank transfer details. Transfer done. Child presumably ecstatic. I am so, so pleased. I started this thread a bit too early! For what it's worth I don't think the girl minds being left alone in the least. She has made friends on the yard and she has the freedom to mess about with her pony. She has gone out hacking alone or with friends and am sure had a lovely time without parents in the way. She may like a few more lifts in the morning but she always seems cheerful and contented. And there are always people around on the yard at 6:30am - the pre-work gang.
 
Glad this is the outcome you both wanted...

Personally I'd be worried if my daughter walked to the yard at the age of 12...always happy to take her. But, having said that different kind of environment..

Equally I've known 12 year olds that were more sensible than teenagers/adults.
Who knows she may enjoy her time spent without her parents around...
 
Excellent! The girl must be absolutely thrilled to bits. And im sure you are too knowing you have found a great home with a reliable owner.
 
THEY HAVE BOUGHT HER!!!! Got a message out of the blue from mum saying dad had 'finally relented' and asking for bank transfer details. Transfer done. Child presumably ecstatic. I am so, so pleased. I started this thread a bit too early! For what it's worth I don't think the girl minds being left alone in the least. She has made friends on the yard and she has the freedom to mess about with her pony. She has gone out hacking alone or with friends and am sure had a lovely time without parents in the way. She may like a few more lifts in the morning but she always seems cheerful and contented. And there are always people around on the yard at 6:30am - the pre-work gang.
That is fabulous news, very pleased for you and also young girl too xx
 
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