Katie donning a beautiful, silhouette dress matching her long black hair, slowly led her crystal white mare toward the location of the photo shoot. Having photographed Katie before, I knew we were in for a creative, artsy equine photo session! Let the fun begin; “time to capture their unique personalities together” was my initial thought. This pair took to the camera almost instantly! Their newly formed bond shone through immediately. Euphoria looked to her new owner for a little extra confidence, while Katie kept her new horse calm and focused.
Katie and Euphoria have only been in a partnership for three short months, since Katie stumbled upon this beauty on an impromptu trip to Sandspur Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona while on a business trip to Dallas, Texas. She decided to extend her trip into a short vacation, where she was first introduced to Euphoria. It was love at first sight, according to Katie. She rode a couple of other horses, but knew Euphoria was the one for her! Katie couldn’t look away from her big, expressive eyes, which seemed to draw her gaze and interest even more.
Euphoria PA (Masquerade PA X Donatella) is a 7 year old Purebred Arabian mare who arrived at Cedarbrook Arabians the beginning of the Summer. They have enjoyed taking lessons, hacking around, and just learning more about one another. Euphoria’s personality just keeps getting bigger and brighter the more she opens up to Katie. Her ears prick forward when you enter her stall, especially when she knows there might be peppermints involved — her favorite treat.
When asked what Katie’s favorite characteristic is about Euphoria, she had a difficult time choosing just one. After much thought, she did settle on one important quality; Katie loves how sweet she is. Euphoria knows no stranger and seems to have an affection for each person she meets. The mare has not encountered a person she hasn’t liked.
Katie mentioned one time she had a really terrible day, so she decided to go to the barn late that evening and spend some time with her favorite horse. She sat down in the corner of her stall when Euphoria came right over to her, gently resting her head on Katie’s, and falling asleep. At that point, Katie felt peace and so connected to her. A really special moment she will never forget.
The duo just competed in Euphoria’s first ever horse show and their first together at the Rocky Mount Charity Open Show in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. They had stellar rides and won a few ribbons; a cherry on top of their awesome performance. This show was the first of many! In April 2018, they plan to compete in Raleigh, North Carolina at the JB Hunt Horse Complex at their first A-Rated Arabian horse show. After qualifying there, the pair is hoping to make their way to the Region 12 Arabian Horse Championships in Perry, Georgia. The ultimate goal is to compete and win at Nationals.
After spending a lot of time together with this duo, I know the future is bright for them as they continue to strengthen their bond. Their loyalty, trust, and friendship are already strong. Good luck to Katie & Euphoria as they pursue their dreams!
Loving the versatility in your photo blog! These pics are absolutely beautiful and that horse….STUNNING! Euphoria is a very fitting name for her.