“During May of 2005, my daughter Kate and I set off on a journey of discovery from England to Starry Pines Ranch in Colorado, to meet and train with Franklin. This journey was to open our hearts and eyes to ‘The Way of the Horse.’ During our time there, about two weeks, I cried with pride daily, as I watched Franklin inspire this little 10 year old, timid and shy girl to blossom with confidence around horses.

Franklin has shown Kate how to “step up to the plate” and, above all, stay there. Before meeting Franklin, I had seen Kate step up to the plate throughout her ten years as she has incredible strength of will. However, the emotional strain of making that step would drain her leaving her frozen and tearful once she had made that immense step. With Franklin’s teaching Kate not only stepped up to the plate, but also went far beyond, unleashing a quiet determination, which filled me with pride. But to Kate it was “no big deal.” Each time Kate met a new challenge she quietly said to Franklin “Alright,” and went and met it head on with incredible steadfastness and courage.

I have always known my daughter Kate is special. What Mother doesn’t think that of her own? Franklin has given Kate a special gift, the gift of believing in her own ability. Franklin has opened doors for Kate and shown her how to walk through those doors. Previously she would tentatively push the door and peep through.

I cannot thank Franklin, Honey, Pete and JB enough for the gift they have given Kate. I know that at this moment in time Kate does not understand the importance of the precious skills she developed whilst working with Franklin at Starry Pines Ranch. I know one day she will look back and see this period of her life as a major turning pint in her life.

We leave Starry Pines with more than we brought, namely a circle of friends who have bestowed on us nothing but warmth and kindness. Both Kate and I take away new talents and skills, which will not only enhance our lives but that of all horses and ponies we encounter. We also take the memories of having worked with a beautiful person, Franklin. Lastly and most importantly, a herd of exceptionally tolerant, kind and willing horses. To name them again; Pete, Honey, Paint JB and Shiloh. Franklin and ‘friends’ have now equipped Kate and I with the precious tools and skills to continue our journey to ‘The Way of the Horse.’

Where to begin? Today was fabulous. There are no assumptions, just talking and teaching.  There is judgment neither from the horse nor you.  I like and appreciate that you started me from the very beginning; how to walk to a horse in pasture, That very thing allowed me to let go of all my previous knowledge and start fresh.  This is a new beginning, a whole new intent with a whole new path and outcome.