User Profile

About me (I hate these things), I was tricked into going to college - even with a MA I still can't find a job in my field. For reasons I don't understand, I'm considering returning to school for my PhD. I'm an Equine Historian (the reason why I can't find a job) and a regular ole historian (more American Civil War). So, Equine Historian, I research breeds, equine sports, and sometimes I focus on a famous horse. A major focal point of my work has been on the impact the horse has had on the economy, transportation, and their contributions in times of war. Fun stuff.

I live on a horse farm. I'm a hunter/jumper by discipline, but have recently switched over to Classical Dressage. I've recently discovered just how jealous I am of anyone showing in the International Hunter Derby series. I LOVE having a Paso Fino and will always have at least one in my barn. I don't believe there is anything wrong with horseracing, instead I believe the fault lies with breeders breeding for lighter animals who cannot handle the stress of running or the rigors of training, let alone they breed for the breeding shed and not the sport. There's bad apples everywhere, with horses breaking down on the track it’s emotional and showcases high drama. With 25+years, I promise any naysayers, that any successful horse on the show circuit can often times find themselves handed over to the meat buyers when they are no longer winning. I believe responsible horse-ownership starts with a dedication to the animal and ends with a commitment to give them dignity in the end.

Next to my love for my horses, are my Bernese Mountain Dogs. By far the coolest breed of dog - ever! In the end, the more I'm around people, the more I love my dogs and horses. ;)

I'm not a fan of TV, however I adore Anderson Cooper (AC360 on CNN)...and Mike Rowe (Dirty Jobs)...and Gordon Ramsey (Hell's Kitchen)...and Ghost Hunters...and re-runs of Inuyasha.

Generally speaking I'm a quiet person, I tend to keep to myself and avoid the drama.

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The key to a good horse person is balance. It's having an equal balance of masculine and feminine. Great horsemen are very sensitive guys. Great horsewomen are a bit more aggressive than most. It's just a good balanced personality.
-GaWaNi Pony Boy

Just a Horse
From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a horse," or,"that's a lot of money for just a horse".

They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a horse." Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a horse."

Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a horse," but I did not once feel slighted. Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a horse," and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a horse" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a horse," then you will probably understand phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."

"Just a horse" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy.

"Just a horse" brings out the compassion and patience that makes me a better person. Because of "just a horse" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a horse" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.

"Just a horse" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a horse" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a woman."

So the next time you hear the phrase "just a horse" just smile, because they just don't understand.
-Unknown Source