<![CDATA[M KATHLEEN WARREN PHOTO-ENCAUSTIC ARTIST

Until their partnership developed, she and her horse practiced daily. Now, the day had come—her mare was groomed, the tack fitted, all leather polished. She put on her best gown and braided her hair. Swinging astride her mare, she rode out with anticipation. With joy and freedom and connection, the woman and the mare flowed as one through the movements of their dance. The mare galloped; the woman’s gown billowed behind them; the crowd applauded. Yet when the judges spoke, she walked away as princess rather than queen of the tournament that day. As she slowly walks away from the crowd, her face reveals a touch of sadness. In the next moment, she will realize that she still has her mare, her partner, and an unbreakable bond that cannot be judged.

Many thanks to Christopher Haire, fellow photographer, for an idea that led to this story about my image.