For all Horse Lovers

This came across one of my forums and I loved it---it was not attributed to anyone, unfortunately

When I am an old Horsewoman

I shall wear turquoise and diamonds,

And a straw hat that doesn't suit me.

And I shall spend my social security on white wine and carrots,

And sit in my alleyway of my barn

And listen to my horses breathe.

I will sneak out in the middle of a summer night

And ride the old bay gelding,

Across the moonstruck meadow If my old bones will allow.

And when people come to call, I will smile and nod

As I walk past the gardens to the barn and the horses, inside stalls fresh-lined with straw.

I will shovel and sweat and wear hay in my hair as if it were a jewel.

And I will be an embarrassment to all,

Who will not yet have found the peace in being free to have a horse as a best friend,
A friend who waits at midnight hour

With muzzle and nicker and patient eyes

For the kind of woman I will be When I am old.