What inspired you to write the book “The Smart Woman’s Guide to Midlife Horses”?
The American Horse Council Foundation estimates there are 9.2million horses in the United States and 75% are owned by women over the age of forty. I saw these women at a Clinton Anderson clinic who had the time, money, health and desire to own a horse.
Who will benefit most from reading your book?
Any man or woman who has always wanted a horse in their life. However, I focused on middle aged women who have taken care of their family and are now ready to realize their own dreams. The book is for any riding discipline, trail riding to competing – for people who have an equestrian interest in their blood. This is the book I wish I had found when I decided at age forty-five to get back in the saddle.
Clinton Anderson has been a abig influence in your life. Can you comment?
I included quite a bit of information I learned from Clinton in the book. He is very good at breaking down aspects of horsemanship. Before meeting Clinton I learned by watching a video, trying it and then watching the video again. Midlife students are very teachable because we are devoted to learning and have the time and energy. I hope everyone finds a teacher that understands you and your horse – Clinton has been helpful to many students.
The book offers great practical advice. Give our readers an example?
We all dream of owning a shiny, young horse. However, many of the women I spoke to told me about feeling overwhelmed and frustrated by owning the wrong horse. Clinton Anderson tells students their first horse should be a one-eyed, 23 year old horse! That may be an exaggeration, but it is a much easier road to start out with the right horse. At midlife, riding a horse takes a lot more than just hoping on like we did as kids. In Chapter 5 “Find Your Happy Trail” I write about the “lay of the land” which will help readers determine what they want to do with horses. I review all the different riding disciplines and related activities to help readers take the next step in their journey of self discovery.
Your book has personal stories from everyday folks, famous names and trainers offering advice. How were you able to collect so many great stories?
I found out that everyone opens up when they are talking about their horse or horses in general. Many women wanted to share their stories to help others. There is a connection and emotion to people drawn to horses, and we build better human relationships through horses. Their stories have humor, honesty and hard-earned wisdom.
The book is about horses, but I found many metaphors and other aspects of life from reading the book.
Yes –the book examines any dream we always wanted to do but think it may have slipped away. I want the book to help people realize this is the time to reignite an old passion – in this case, adding horses to the middle of your life. The book offers things to consider, options to ponder and tips for processing this half-ton decision.
One chapter talks about being around horses with specific suggestions such as volunteering at a riding therapy school.
Yes – for many middle age people owning a horse means the possibility of getting hurt or not having the financial means to own a horse, but still wanting to be around horses. So volunteering is a great option to be with horses, nourish the soul and help others. Also, I break down in the book how much time can be involved in owning a horse. This chapter is full of advice from time management experts to help readers find ways to wedge a horse-sized slice of bliss into their already packed lives.
Where can we send our readers who want to know more about your book?
I have a blog and website www.melindafolse.com I love hearing people’s comments!
