Velvet Rose

riding Sally Mae Saratoga

I started riding about 8 years ago. My first horse was a 20 plus year old palomino Quarter Horse I named Belle Star. Star was a beautiful gold color with a sway back. She was too short for my long legs. But to me, she was the most beautiful horse in the world. My husband’s horse, Sunny, was very scared and spooked at everything so this meant that on the trail Star and I were put up front and put in situations that made me learn fast.
Star had a spirit and fire about her that made her a good combination of teacher, a fun friend, and most of all, she led the way for my love of horses. I had Star for almost a year before she had to be put down. The day she was put down was to be our first parade together. Many years later, I have a strand of Star’s tail in my saddle bags so that Star rides every parade with me. I would not be the rider I am today without the Love of Star.
I was blessed to have found my true soul mate with my gray
Quarter Horse, named Princess Sally Mae Saratoga. Her registered name is Allen's Barbie Doll. Sally is now 20 years old. I have had her almost 8 years. The love and trust that Sally and I have is what every cowgirl wishes to have. Sally has gotten herself hurt so that I would not be injured on several occasions. Someone once told me what it is that is so special about Sally: she is a kindred old spirit. Other horses seem to be drawn to her. One of my favorite memories is not about riding, but about looking in the barn and seeing Sally sharing her dinner with about 10 bunnies. One of my favorites riding memories was when we rode on an open range ranch and up a stream for about 3 miles; there was a special connection that day. She had done parades for years before I ever bought her and she has had police training, done mounted patrol work, as well as taking part in memorial gun salutes. Sally has done it all but she still has a fire and spirit that keeps me on my toes. She is beautiful on the inside and out.