
As 2023 comes to a close I want to remember and pay tribute to an exceptional horse. On the 13th of September, I photographed Mabel a 13-year-old Cob. She was one of the horses in the early days that I photographed. But she was the first horse I have felt completely at ease with, in a very long time. She knew I was nervous. She slowly approached me, lowered her head, gave me a smile, followed by a gentle nudge. I left that session with a deep understanding of who Mable was. She was a sentient being, with feelings and a kind heart. I honestly can't describe how much she affected me. She showed me respect, trust, and kindness inside that ring. She didn't have to but she did. I was shocked and saddened when just 7 days later her owner messaged me with the news that she was gone. Mabel had passed away unexpectedly. When Mabel was 4 years old she was rescued by Jo Clare and Mabel's loss was devastating. Mabel shared something so special with me that I want to experience it again and as many times as I can. I'll never lose or forget what Mabel gave me. Every time I grab my camera and head out for a session, I think of her and thank her for just being Mabel. We miss her, and we'll never forget her.