May 2022 Issue

Page 40 May 2022 EAST COAST EQUESTRIAN Harness/Tack/Leather Repair Animal Health Blanket Repair/Custom Tack Fencing Farrier Supply Boarding & Lessons Aged Equines Barn Construction Bedding The Directory Equines and Art Help One Woman Survive Devastating Fire Finally, in the chaos of falling debris, crackling boards, and popping and raining glass, Ellie dashed for the children and the remaining horses as Alan released the mature cows. She and Alan became separated. Ellie said as the last cow exited the barn there was a large ex- plosion. Then the fire destroyed the structure. Although no person was seriously hurt, they found themselves in a place filled with sadness and guilt, thinking their lives would never be repaired. The night of the fire, the lives of Ellie’s family changed forever. Lost were seven calves—the kids’ best friends. “All the calves were named, trained to accept the children on their backs and pull pony carts, and willingly went everywhere the kids asked,” Ellie stated. Also lost were their treasured horses, Mabel and Maggie, and all the tack, hay, equipment, and (Continued from page 34) supplies were nothing but ashes. They were left with scars on their hearts and in their night- mares. Yet, Ellie remarked, even though they lost so much, they were humbled God allowed them to be spared. In the next weeks and months as Ellie reflected, she tried to focus on the positives. Family is not just about blood; horses are not just about the win but the bond. She also learned her children are resilient soldiers. She realized the true value of family, friends and gratitude. Ellie’s parents, who live only two miles away, were nothing less than heroes. They were first on the scene before the firefighters. Her father wasted no time diving into action. Their equestrian family also appeared eager to help, like Terry and Peg Helder, and Kelsey Brindle who arrived in half the normal time. They freely hauled the horses and monitored their care in the next days. Fortunately, no person suffered long-term damage, although Ellie’s lungs were sore for a week, and she suffered a fractured foot and Alan experi- enced muscle injury and minor burns. What did survive were 13 cows, two calves, and two hors- es named Bailey and Gabby. Because the investigation did not permit the Harnishes to remove the animals until com- plete, Ellie’s father covered each of the deceased in place with his backhoe. After the inves- tigation, he initiated clean-up alongside neighbors and farming friends. The community rallied by making meals and lending a hand. The church held a benefit yard sale and collected financial donations (some from as far as Nebraska) while horse friends gathered tack and supplies. As for her children, homeschooling was a blessing because of that close- knit community. “This communi- ty has provided a strong hope for the upcoming months,” Ellie said. That same year, Ellie and her family were back in the saddle in more ways than one. The horses provided therapy. Ellie, her daughter, Rhya, and her father rode the 2021 East Coast Ranch Riding Associa- tion (ECRRA) season on both her heart horse, Gabby, Hobbys Grand Finale, and Bailey, EF Bell of the Ball. Both horses survived the fire. Ellie earned a Top 10 Buckle. Today the Harnishes are raising and showing cattle. They just bred their second litter of Pembroke Welsh Corgis, are raising six new calves, have built a finished barn, and the children are thriv- ing. Ellie had her own strug- gles with resilience. She has found the singeing of wood now makes her nauseous after the fire trauma. She attempted to pick up where she left off several times but failed. Through a holistic doctor and daily prayer, she used scripture to heal. Bible verses like Philippians 4:10-13 elevated her self-confidence. “I have learned in whatever situation I am, to be content.” Her business, called Elle Pyrography, is reborn out of the ashes. Now, Ellie enjoys the business more as a ministry. She has added the technique of Lichtenberg wood burn- ing, which employs electricity and resembles lightning bolts through the wood. Her art is stunning, and wonderful as a unique gift whether a horse lover or not. Ellie can be contacted at harnishellen@icloud.com . Ellie’s family and friends have been her lifeline through this disaster. And she continues to heal everyday through God’s given gifts of equines and her artistic talent. Alicia Stephens Martin is an author based out of southern Pennsylvania and recently pub- lished her third novel Spurred to Jump, a second in a series.