Stardust and the Daredevil Ponies. Stacy Gregg

beamed as she grabbed Issie in an enormous hug. Issie found herself squished in her aunt’s arms, drowning in the familiar scent of Chanel perfume.

      “Aunty Hess! It’s so good to see you again!” Issie said. She turned to Natasha. “Aunty Hess, I want you to meet my friend Natasha from pony club. She’s a really good rider.”

      “Hello, Natasha. How terrific to have you here!” Hester smiled.

      Natasha smiled back stiffly. “Thank you,” she replied.

      “And these are Hester’s dogs,” Issie said, finishing her introductions. “This is Nanook,” she explained, pointing to the shaggy black Newfoundland, “and Strudel,” she said, patting the golden retriever. “And this one is Taxi,” Issie said, scratching the black and white cattle dog behind the ears.

      Natasha looked nervously at the dogs and still didn’t get down off the bunk.

      “Good boys! Outside now!” Hester instructed the dogs–and the three of them leapt up immediately, tearing off out the door.

      “Are you girls unpacking? There’s time for that later. Right now you’re coming with me,” Hester said firmly. “Go and get the others. It’s time to meet the horses.”