When I was 12 years old a very special Appaloosa came into my life, her name was Dee Jay’s Snow Sprite. Together we won many trophies and year-end awards. Sprite was very versatile. She excelled in trail, pleasure and command class, but also did well in western riding and reining. When Rodeo East was in Moncton, we were one of the “Flag Girls” in the opening ceremonies. What an experience that was! Sprite also loved to jump. We eventually tried a few Hunter classes. I must confess though, she liked it more than I did.

 Getting Sprite ready for a show was always a challenge. She was white and would always lie down at night. She would have to be bathed more than once to get ready for a show. The results were always worth it though; I thought she always looked beautiful.

 I had no intentions of having another horse after Sprite was gone, but I have two boys who love to ride, so I now find myself with another Appaloosa mare. I think of Sprite often, and all that she taught me, responsibility, patience, the joys of winning and learning from my mistakes when we lost. I still miss her and wish she were here to teach my boys all that she taught me. 

 I would like to thank my parents Charles and Joan Johnston for the precious gift of Sprite, the lessons and clinics, and the summers for many years spent traveling to the shows. It was an awesome experience that I wouldn’t have had without them.