“There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man.”

I love the outdoors and most of all the animals that thrive outdoors. I was born into a horse family. The smell of a barn, dirt, hay; yes, even manure, are all smells that make me feel at peace. Being outdoors on land or in a barn is where my soul is most happy. There is a peacefulness that lives in the outdoors and it brings a smile to my heart and soul. I have always cherished the simplicity of nature and the humbleness of animals. When people find out I have horses they normally ask if I show and compete. The answer is yes and no. When I grew up with horses I learned something more important than the idea and desire to compete and show. I learned what real horsemanship was about and, most of all, how special and sacred a bond between horse and man really is. There are some of the most honorable men and women in history who have been quoted about the bond they shared with their horses. It is not unique to one individual but to all mankind. Horse people experience a miracle every time they pet their gentle, flight animals in the middle of a pasture; when they sit upon their backs in an open, rolling field, and when they witness their giant flight animals run towards them out of happiness and excitement. Horses are a type of animal who traditionally should fear humans, and anything they see as predators, yet, they allow humans to get close and bond with them. I try to capture photos that show the peace and humbleness I feel and experience with horses and other farm animals. I want to show the haunting beauty in an open field or unique piece of nature. When I am experiencing the outdoors there is an emotion I cannot explain which is why I always try to capture it. Here are some of places around my home and my neighbor's farm I enjoy most. I have truly been blessed and I hope I never find myself ungrateful or numb to the beauty I experience daily. www.LaurenPigford.com