Riding horses is one of life's great joys.

When the rest of the world gets crazy, what could be better than saddling up and getting away from it all?

Nothing, that's what.

At least not for a horse lover.

If you've lived with horses for a long time, you know what I mean. If you're just getting started, you'll soon learn. A good horse is as good a friend as a good dog - they don't judge you or critize you - they're just there to give you attention and love, as long as you treat them well.

The difference is, with a good horse you can climb aboard and he'll take you exploring. With a dog you have to use your own feet!

I've personally been feeling deprived for the past few years. I have an old horse, Max, a purebred Quarter Horse, who just can't get around like he used to. When he was young he was used for gaming and that damaged his ankles, so now that he is a "senior citizen" (age 32) he has some problems with lameness. I only ride him between pastures or for 5 minutes just to give him attention.

That's why I've been watching for "my horse" to appear - and last June he did. I knew I wanted a Bay Arabian Gelding. I don't know why, but that's what I wanted, and for 2 years I've scanned the ads, not finding him. Then, one Friday I saw the ad!

By Tuesday, the "Little Guy" was installed in my pasture. Compared to an overweight Quarter Horse, this Arabian looks mighty tiny! But he's exactly what I wanted, and I'm feeling thankful that I saw that ad and bothered to drive the hour and a half to go meet him.

I never could figure out his name, so he's known as LG - for Little Guy.