My first house was on a very small quarter-acre, which was situated across from a large five-acre riding academy.  At the time, I was pregnant with my only son, Dylan.  I would sit out on the porch, for hours, just watching the horses and waiting for the birth of my son.  How I dreamed of him sharing my love of horses.

Shortly after my son was born, I realized that - although it was zoned for it, a quarter-acre is not nearly enough room for one horse - let alone, for two.  Consequently, within a two year period, we had moved to a much larger property in Norco that was set up to accommodate horses.  We made many friends that also shared a love of horses.

Thirsty for knowledge and willing to do, learn and succeed...I hosted my friend's horses (Special thanks to Chris Stone and Tracy Stone-It really is all their fault I have morgans!   I can't thank them enough!) at my house, which started the next chapter in our lives.  It was my first encounter with the wonderful world of the Morgan horse!  Little did I know they had already picked me.....

I spent countless hours with friends and neighbors discussing the various breeds and why they picked their horses.  Then I started researching the different breeds available, their traits, strengths, weaknesses, history and purpose.  I attended shows, demonstrations and workshops.  I bought a slew of books and magazines to soak up all the knowledge I could.  The more I found out about Morgan's...the more they intrigued me. Not to mention, the ones in my back yard already stole my heart.

As I tried to focus ahead on making the right breed decision, my head kept being twisted around to the same spot.  I had spent the time getting to know my neighbors and their horses, which were Arabian, Quarter, Standard and Paints.  None of them impressed me more than these wonderful Morgan's standing right in front of me.  The more time I spent with them...the more evident it was to me how truly special they are and this is a breed like no other!

One of the three Morgan's was being hosted at my house was up for sale and I quickly bought her for my very own.  Serena (SSM Mountain Song) and I developed a special bond and she will always be my first love.  We have been on many trail rides since then, and of course, my favorite are the rides among the acorn trees - which I now know, are beautiful old growth oak trees.

During this time, my son Dylan was constantly outside with me.  Our beloved Morgan's have a special bond with him - like I've never seen before. They are patient, kind and careful with Dylan.  My own measure of how wonderful our Morgan's are concerns them and three year old Dylan.  Dylan was trying to help me take the horses to the arena for some exercise, when he opened the gate to one of the stalls Bear (SSM C Jessica Ash) just stood there - without moving, and waited for me.  Believe me there had been other times when the gate was slightly open just enough for her to dart out past me (which she occasionally did to get into the hay) but with Dylan it was different and still is to this day.  Bear has taught Dylan how to handle and ride with the utmost of care and patience, protecting him with her every move.