t’s appropriate that I both met

and eloped with my husband on horseback. Many of my happiest moments are in the company of animals. I have been an animal lover my whole life. I am fortunate that my husband, Jim, is an animal lover, as well. We have great fun observing the complex and often amusing relationships between all creatures, including humans.

have always had a profound

memory for the subtleties of animals. Friends tease me about how across an arena, I remember the distinct personalities, name, previous owners, age and performance record of a horse that I haven’t seen in 5 years. I wish my memory for people was as good!

he gentle gestures animals use

to communicate with other animals and try to communicate with people fascinates me. I remember observing a Ray Hunt workshop and realizing that a flick of a horse’s ear can get an idea across to the entire herd. A human would need a megaphone and whip. Whenever I have the chance I continue to learn about horses and art from the masters.

have always loved an adventure,

especially if it involves horses. I’ve been lucky enough to travel throughout the world, participating in either competitive tennis or polo. There is nothing quite like the feeling of taking off at sunrise in my rig, loaded with 6 horses, a fresh mug of coffee and a good book on tape on a trip to Jackson, Wyoming or Sun Valley, Idaho. Traveling with horses makes you part of a great group of people, — buddies and friends — always willing to lend a hand when needed. This reassures me about the innate goodness of people. In all my years of riding, I’ve never been broken down on the side of the road for more than 20 minutes without someone stopping with open arms to help, offering to loan me gear or whatever is needed. Horse people are good people and I’m so glad to be a part of this wonderful community.