My Fantasy Pet

I rarely have a single photo post, so I thought, why not share it with the community created for that? 😁
Also, this cuteness overload deserves the centre field.

During the twilight hour, I walked by a stable along a remote road.
Dark enough that I nearly missed it, but light enough;
Thank goodness I glimpsed it.
Alone, by the lonely road leading to Napton Cidery, stood the pony.
Silently, by the fence, looking dejected.

Its gentle demeanour captivated me immediately.
The blanket electrified its cuteness, which evoked deep emotions of sympathy, and I wanted to hug it.
Alas, there were barriers before the fence and a sign not to feed the horses.

Fantasies of a pet pony living in the bow of my boat seemed realistic, since green grass is abundant along the towpaths, and some stables provide hay for passersby to help themselves.
Visualisations of me leading the pony to nearby fields had me gloating, as I imagined the pony enjoying the changes of scenery.

I'm neither a pony nor a horse whisperer, but I was thrilled that its ears perked as I said hello in what appeared to be a moment of zen for the pony.
There was softness in its eyes. Yes, its eyes were focused yet soft. So calm was the pony, enjoying the attention.
It seemed so caring and so affectionate.

What if I hadn't noticed it?
What if there were no barriers?
What if I'd touched it?
What if it had made a sound?
What if I never spoke to it?
What if it were a colt?
What if it were a mare?

What if I were a pony?

Then, reality struck.

Not only does acquiring a pony not align with my life right now, but I could not properly nurture a healthy and happy pony on my boat.
Still, the touching fantasy leads to thoughts and appreciation for the farmland owners who love, care for, and receive the trust and affection of such equine mammals.

Strangely, within the equestrian family, I adore ponies and donkeys, but I'm a tad bit terrified of being too close to horses; they're majestic but too unpredictable for me to relax around them.
Still, these marvellous moments make me realise how much of a country girl I am at heart, and the simplicity of countryside living makes me smile.

Are you an animal lover too, and what are your preferences and some of the deciding factors for your pet choice?
Also, do you have a pony, or have you ever fantasised about having a pony in your backyard?

Please feel free to share the emotion you felt from this picture that I took.

Thanks for stopping by. :)

Location: Napton on the Hill, UK
Candid Mobile Animal Photography of a Lone Pony
December, 2024

What rocks my boat