Smokey
Book Five, Story One
Smokey was a Pinto pony that I rode at the Evanofski’s farm in the Hazleton area of Pennsylvania when I was a young girl. He was just as temperamental as the Smokey in this story and just as much fun to ride! One time when I was riding Smokey at a canter (a faster gait) he just STOPPED, put his head down, I flew over his neck and head, and landed hard on the ground. It knocked the wind completely out of me. I could not breathe! My father and Mr. Evanofski came running to me and they each held one of my hands and told me I was going to be fine. I didn’t think so at the time! After the air filled my lungs again and I could breathe, I got right back up in Smokey’s saddle and we had a good ride. I had many good rides on Smokey…he was fast, fun, and kind of unpredictable! Such good memories of riding the real Smokey that I wanted to share in this story…I also wanted to honor Smokey, one of my favorite riding ponies when I was a young girl.
What Our Readers Say…
‘Wolfie the Most Beautiful Pony in the World’ was my favorite in Adventures At Green Apple Acres because I strive to see the inner beauty in people and other beings. As an example, my favorite dogs have always been mutts — not classically built, with features that can be easily judged, like purebreds at shows — but scruffy, one-of-a-kind companions, with personalities as unique as their outward appearances. And when I was in school, I avoided the cliques of girls who seemed overly concerned with their looks and clothing. Instead, I gravitated toward those who may not have been perfect on the outside, but they had a brain and a sense of humor, which I found much more interesting than a pretty dress or impeccable make-up and hair. So, like the character John, I can appreciate someone for all they have to offer, and see past what meets the eye.
