A Passion for Horses: True Stories of Lives Lived Loving Horses - Softcover

While I was reorganizing a photo album, I realized I was not getting any younger. As I flipped from page to page, there was no ignoring that I had become, taller, leaner, and more wrinkled. But what impressed me even more was that every page of the album featured at least one photo of me with a horse. Better yet, I could still recall each animal’s name, his quirks, and what it felt like to sit his trot or caress his neck. I think that photo album best defines my life. Even the earliest pictures, just grainy black-and-white snapshots, show that I was a girl in love with anything connected to horses. You can tell by how proudly I modeled my cowgirl outfit at age four.

Over the years, I’ve learned that horse lovers share three things. First, we need little prodding to converse about how horses have impacted out lives, regardless of the differences in our ages, geographical locales, or financial underpinnings. Second, horse lovers have a habit of collecting

photographs. Thank goodness for snapshots that help us recall a treasured pony, a faithful show horse, or a long lost riding companion. Finally, horse people are an expressive bunch. Our love of horses is so strong, so ingrained in the very essence of our soul that we seek out ways to express that love.

A Passion for Horses profiles people who have unique ways of telling the rest of the world about their love affair with horses. It also is a collection of my personal reflections after spending years in the saddle. But most of all, A Passion for Horses is a book for kindred spirits who feel a special stirring in their hearts whenever they look into the deep, liquid eyes of that magnificent creature, the horse.

These equine devotees share a common love of horses regardless of background, financial status, or age. This collection of heart-warming stories will inspire everyone from beginning pleasure riders to the most advanced competitors. Meet Wilma, the retired trick rider who is just as comfortable jumping a horse over a row of cars as she is enjoying a summer day on the porch. Get acquainted with Helen, who translated her love of horses into a full-time job as owner of a rehabilitation and adoption center for retired racehorses. Ride along with Kathy, who didn’t let cancer keep her from riding her favorite horse, even with her oxygen tank strapped to her back. Author Cindy Hale and equine photographer Sharon P. Fibelkorn introduce a diverse cast of equine characters who will make even the most horse-shy person want to pick up the reins and make a new four-hooved friend.