If These Walls Could Talk – an EC Blog by Marissa Ledford

By Marissa Ledford

A barn once filled now sits empty.

As I look down this aisle one last time, I can’t think of a better way to have spent my childhood than right here in this barn. The number of horses that have walked through these doors, the lifelong friends that were made, and—most importantly—the lifelong lessons that have shaped so many people’s lives all exist because two incredible people opened their doors and welcomed us in.

If these walls could talk, they would tell you so many stories—stories of pure excitement, heartbreak, and everything in between. This place was more than just a barn; it was my happy place, my safe place, my home away from home. Most people enjoy resorts and vacations, but my pure joy was coming here to the barn, where there were, obviously, horses, lots of sweat, hard work, laughter, boot camps, sometimes tears, lots of therapy (Dar is an elite therapist), but always a sense of peace.

You see, this farm and the horses that were in it were not just a passion/hobby —they were truly gifts from God. They could feel your emotions in every aspect. They know when you are sad and find ways to bring you comfort. They know when you are upset or have had a bad day, and they are there for you to let it all out. They know when you are happy—they feel it through your body. The hundreds of horses that have walked these aisle-ways have changed the lives of so many people. This barn was life-changing.

And inside this barn were two of the most incredible, loving, hard working, thoughtful, and dedicated people I know. Dan and Darlene housed many champions, many dreamers, and many first-time believers, but no matter where they were in their journey, they were all loved and cared for as if they were royalty. Their love for their clients, horses, and others is why this barn stayed full for all these years.

Though “horse trainers” is no longer their main title, they will never turn away from helping… so ask them for help—they are the best!

Thank you, Dan and Darlene, for sharing your beautiful farm with me all these years. Your farm has been a place of pure serenity for me. I’m so thankful for all the memories we made together here. Thank you for opening your farm to a no-horse-owning family, little did we know we would eventually own many horses with you. Trein Training Center will always hold a special place in my heart and has shaped who I am to this day. So long, my happy place—it’s been an incredible ride.