Out of the Starting Gate

This is an excerpt from the first book in "The Faith Series": Innocence: Simplicity of Spirit.

Lilia came bounding into the kitchen from her bedroom. It was Saturday. She could spend the entire day with her horse, King, and she couldn't wait.

"Guess what I learned on Wikipedia, Gramps?" Lilia cried gleefully.

"Child, I'd have no idea." Apelehama sometimes couldn't keep up with his overzealous granddaughter, and he knew it.

"I learned that King is the 'peacock of the horse world.' He is sensitive and alert, and that he is the most beautiful horse in the world! I learned that he is naturally gaited with the walk, trot, canter, slow-gait, and rack. Most other horses have to be taught the slow-gait and the rack, but not King because it was bred into him!"

"That is interesting," Apelehama admitted.

"I learned that his ancestors were bred from a Narragansett Pacer and a Thoroughbred. Later, some Morgan blood was added for 'substance and action.' They purposefully developed the breed into a 'stylish fancy horse: beautiful for harness, strong enough for farm work, and fast enough for match racing.' I have the best horse in the world!"

"Do you now?" Apelehama thought perhaps Lilia was exaggerating a little.

"Yep, and that's why they used American Saddlebred horses in the movies of National Velvet, Gone with the Wind, and Zorro!" Lilia exclaimed. "They can even be taught to jump or dressage. They're really smart!"

Just like her, thought Apelehama. "Let's pray." Lilia prayed with her family, and gobbled down her bacon, eggs, and toast. She excused herself, and hit the back screen door running.

Lilia's dad smiled, "It's amazing how fast a kid can get out of the starting gate at that age!"

Her mom smiled too, and said, "Oh the joys and enthusiasm of youth."

Apelehama chimed in, "Speak for yourself. I've still got a little something left kicking in these old bones!"