My first horse was an Appaloosa named Speckles.
For my sis she could outrun any horse in the neighborhood, but for me,
at first, all she would do is walk. She made me so mad, because I knew
that she would do everything my sister would ask, but I couldn't get her
to do anything. One day I was complaining to my Dad about the horse.
I thought we should sell her, but Dad asked me a question.
"How long have you been riding?"
I answered "You know I just started riding,
Dad!"
He looked at me and said, "Maybe she is taking
care of you while you learn. Give yourself and Speckles a while."
"But Dad," I said, " I want to run like
the other kids and run barrels at the saddleclub like Sis does!"
But Dad just shook his head and said, "In time, little-bit, in time. But first you have to learn sit your horse well and to ride with confidence."
I knew he was right but I wanted it all then! Speckles and I had to get along all that summer and into the next year, but as I rode I got more sure of myself. As I got sure of myself Speckles did more of what I asked. Sometimes she would still make me mad when I would ask her and she wouldn't think I was ready, but looking back I know she was right. We never did sell Speckles. She grew old with me and when I had the chance I just couldn't let her go. She had taken care of me all those years when I didn't know what was best for me, but she knew.
Speckles will always be my favorite horse,
but who would have known, the way we started out. I hope every young
girl just learning to ride can have a "Speckles."
She always looked out for me and when I finally
learned to ride well she was the fastest horse in the neighborhood again,
just like she was with my sis!