“I’ve read that Christmas can be one of the loneliest times for many,” she says. “If we can give others something to look forward to, or a brief respite from their situation, I want to do that. I know what riding horses, or simply being around them does for me. My worries are gone and it’s just the horse and me.”

“Riding Council members are given the opportunity to adorn their favorite steeds with holly, lights, and bells, and ride down the quad in the center of campus to greet the community as the sun sets. The Sweet Briar choir leads carols as a tree is lit in the center of the quad.”

What little kid hasn’t dreamt of waking up early Christmas morning and rushing out to the barn to be greeted by their very own pony with a big red bow around his neck? For that matter, what horse addicted adult wouldn’t love that? (With the exception of said pony being replaced by a fancy, 2-year-old, well-bred, futurity prospect…)