Horses can be big, bold and beautiful. I have never owned a horse, but always thought if I ever had the chance to... it would be one animal I would be proud to own, train and show off.

I have always tried to watch the Kentucky Derby, as well as enjoyed the Equestrians whenever they were on television. Their faces are so expressive when in action! I love the sound of their hoofs pounding the ground as they run around the track, or the sound of their breathing as they make the jumps over the hurdles. Lets face it...I practically love every thing about them! The warmth of their breath on your hand when you feed them and the gentle way their lips touch your hand if you hold out an apple to share with them. There is also nothing as wonderful as their soft nicker when they greet you, perhaps while pawing excitedly at the ground with a hoof, as if counting how many steps it takes you to get to them when you enter the stables. You cannot exclude the fact that nothing quite yet also compares to the rodeo or horse shows at your local fair.

You have to love the movie classics like: 'National Velvet' and 'Black Beauty'. Not to mention the story of 'Sea Biscuit' and 'The Horse Whisperer'. All great horse movies that I own and love, including in book form.

So what is that draws us to the horse anyway? They fascinate us with their running style, besides the beauty seen as their manes and tail fly freely in the wind. They can be majestic, fiery spirited, gentle and faithful to a good trainer and gentle owner. They are said to have healing power to assist with the disabled; whether of physical or mental issues. Horses may come in all shapes, color, as well as sizes. Even down to specific nature of breed and personality. But, it is hard to just place one reason as to their popularity, don't you think? Perhaps the answers lie within ourselves and what we look for in the gentle giants.

Thoroughbreds, Arabians, Quarter horses, Welsh, Clydesdale, Palomino, Mustangs...just to name a few. Each unique in their own features and temperament.

I may not own a horse, or have yet had the chance to take horse back riding lessons, have been a part of 4H as a kid, or even been up close and personal as often as I would like, but I wanted to pay tribute to them anyway. They are one of my favorites of the animal kingdom. What else can I say? What's to compare to a horse?