Trigger is a once-in-a-lifetime horse whose story has been woven into the heart of Meadows of Mendon Stables for nearly two decades. She originally lived at a small barn west of here, run by a woman who bred horses, taught lessons, and offered trail rides. When Miss Amy visited the barn to purchase Candy and Gracie, she saw Trigger and immediately knew this chestnut mare belonged in her program. At the time, Miss Amy couldn’t afford to buy her but fate stepped in. The woman needed help training a young, untrained Standardbred. Within six months, Miss Amy and her team trained the horse so she could be safely ridden. In return, Trigger arrived at Meadows of Mendon Stables the next week. From that moment on, Trigger made the stables her kingdom. She supported thousands of riders; beginners, nervous riders, confident riders, and everyone in between. She shaped the spirit of the barn with her confidence, connection, and heart. Trigger retired in spring 2025 after a lifetime of service, love, and devotion.

Cookies arrived at Meadows of Mendon Stables in 2010, and although she was the smallest pony on the farm, she made the biggest impression. Standing just 10hh, she was tiny but her presence was enormous. She quickly earned the nickname “tiny but mighty” for her brave spirit and her willingness to do anything asked of her. From the beginning, Cookies was devoted to her riders. She spent countless hours teaching young children how to ride, helping them find balance, confidence, and joy. She had a way of sensing exactly what each child needed, a steady walk for the timid, a playful trot for the eager, or simply her quiet company for those needing reassurance. Her personality is a charming mix of sweet and sassy. Cookies was once called “Sassy,” and the name fits: she’ll nudge you for attention, demand extra grooming time, and make sure everyone knows she is the princess of the barn. Despite her little moments of attitude, she is deeply affectionate and has an unmistakable bond with people. She also adores her best friend Belle, the two mares are inseparable. Over the years, Cookies became a favorite among families. Many children rode her as their very first pony, forming memories they’ve carried well into adulthood. She has shaped the lives of so many young riders who will never forget her. After giving so many years of patience and love, Cookies retired in June 2025. She now enjoys the peaceful life she wholeheartedly earned; surrounded by friends, pampered by caretakers, and loved by everyone who meets her.

Mindy’s story is one of friendship, energy, and joyful service. She arrived at Meadows of Mendon Stables five years ago, just after her best friend Larry the Lobster came to the farm. The two came from the same property, and Mindy immediately made it clear that wherever Larry went, she wanted to be too. From the start, Mindy brought a surge of enthusiasm that lifted the entire barn. She is one of those rare horses who thrives on activity; always alert, always engaged, always ready to go. Whether it was a spirited trot in the arena, a challenging obstacle on the cross-country course, or a gallop in the lower pasture, Mindy lived for adventure. Her arrival brought fresh excitement to the riding program. Many riders formed deep, lasting bonds with her, drawn to her steady mix of energy and affection. She wasn’t just a riding partner; she was a teacher. Mindy helped nervous riders find bravery, helped experienced riders grow their skills, and brought joy to everyone who worked with her. Having been generously donated to the program, Mindy quickly became a barn favorite. Her big heart, expressive eyes, and “let’s go!” attitude made her unforgettable. She always tried her best and loved every minute of being part of a team. Mindy retired in the summer of 2025 after years of enthusiastic service; still full of spirit, but ready for a gentler, more peaceful life. She now spends her days relaxing, grazing, and staying close to Larry, just as she always wanted.