Lauren James

It all began with an after-school riding lesson at a local farm on a little Shetland pony. Little did I know that the experience would lead me to the show rings at Devon, Harrisburg and Washington on my own small pony, Helicon Epic Event, a few years later. But ribbons and awards were just the outside world’s sign of the trust and respect that grew between us.

I feel so fortunate to have been exposed to ponies and horses at a young age. What inspired awe and wonder as a child also developed independence, structure and a connection to nature that may not be found with any other relationship.

As I moved on, and out, of the show circuit, the love of the animals remained. I felt as though I could contribute to the welfare of horses who were discarded and needed to be rescued from neglect or abuse. And, so I founded “The Mule Shack” to provide a sanctuary for these precious equines who are nursed back to health and now bask in the daily love and care that was so desperately missing.

In return, they provide a safe ride through the trails of the nearby Baltimore County state parkland to children and adults who may never have had the opportunity to experience a ride on a horse. Ambling through the woods, taking a soak in the creek, stopping off at the nearby restaurant while the riders have lunch….that is how they are spending their retirement.