OTTUMWA — One horsepower means everything to Judi Tomlin of rural Bloomfield.

Tomlin traveled to Ottumwa Thursday via a buggy pulled by May, her horse. Sharing the ride was Katy, her little dog.

Tomlin said she’s on disability and cannot afford a car nor insurance for it, let alone any repairs.

Thirteen years ago Tomlin had a full-time job and was attending school. On her way to class, a drunken driver slammed into her car and the impact broke her neck in several places.

“And, I’m rodded in both legs,” she said. “On $657 a month from Social Security, I can’t afford a car.”

Tomlin said she can barely afford her farm payment. She’s still thrilled with May, a four-year-old registered quarter horse given to her by Doug and Jenny Davis of Drakesville. May’s rear left flank bears their brand, the Star-D.

“The Amish broke this horse for me,” Tomlin said. “This Amish guy, Ray Eash, trains and shoes May for me. He’s 18 and our ‘horse whisperer.’ May has bonded with me.”

That was obvious as Tomlin expertly guided May and talked gently to her when passing cars spooked her. When asked if May was just transportation, Tomlin said, “Oh, no ... She’s the love of my heart.”

Between appointments, she and May headed for a friend’s home on the north side where May got to munch some hay. The friend “dog-sat” Katy while Tomlin and May were at the doctor’s office.

Tomlin said she’s a “country girl” and she’s “not complaining” about her situation.

“I’m doin’ what I gotta do,” she said. “I cut my own wood and take care of my farm.”

Living in the country often means “extra” animals show up.

“People dump animals out here all the time. If anyone wants some kittens, they should write to me,” she said.

Tomlin’s address is 10250 Jewell Ave., Bloomfield, Iowa, 52537.

She’s originally from Lemon Grove, Calif., and visited the Centerville area on vacations with her family. In later years, she moved to Ottumwa and her jobs included cashier at the former Easter Foods on Hancock Street., and later, bartender at The Locker Room.