Hello everyone! My name is Lila Yarmolinets, and I’m a nine-year-old fourth grader at Hawkins Elementary in Brighton. I live on Lighthouse Point in Hidden Lake, and I want to tell you all about my wonderful pony, Oreo!

Oreo is not just any pony—he’s a male Pinto Welsh Cross Pony and is a little over 20 years old. We’ve had him for more than a year and a half, and in that time, he has become my best buddy. He’s the kind of pony who looks after me and makes me feel safe. Whenever we ride together, it feels like we can conquer the world!

Now, you might be wondering why I’m calling a 20-year-old horse a pony. Well, ponies are actually smaller than horses, and they’re like the little buddies of the horse world. So even though Oreo is older, he’s still a pony!

Speaking of differences, here’s how ponies and horses are different, especially in competitions:

1. **Size**: First of all, ponies are smaller! If a pony is 14.2 hands tall (that’s a funny way to measure them!), then they’re officially a pony. Horses are taller than that, so they have longer legs and can be super big!

2. **Division**: When it comes to competitions, ponies and horses don’t compete together. They have their own special groups. This is to make it fair because ponies might not be able to jump as high as the big horses. It’s like having different teams for different sizes! Even though they are both different in competition, I think both are truly amazing!!!!

Oreo is a funny little guy who will do just about anything for a treat. Seriously, if you ever see him, just whip out an apple or a carrot, and you’ll see him perk up with excitement! He raises his head and gives you a big, cheerful smile, almost like he’s saying, “Treats, please!” 

Even though he can be a bit silly, he also knows how to be calm. When we trot or canter, he’s fast but gentle. It’s like riding a fluffy cloud that knows how to gallop! We’ve even won multiple ribbons at shows, including a Champion Reserve at my last competition. Isn’t that cool? His official show name is “Double Stuffed,” inspired by his adorable black and white markings that remind me of an Oreo cookie!

I take riding lessons twice a week at Berwcyk Equestrian in Milford, where my instructor, Lisa Oberg, actually introduced me to Oreo. I think about riding him all the time. Just being at the barn with him makes me feel so comfortable. He teaches me to be a better rider every day.

Oreo truly is the perfect pony, and I feel so lucky to have him in my life. He’s never run away or gotten into trouble, which is a big deal for a pony! His calm demeanor makes every ride enjoyable, but he also has a playful side that always keeps me on my toes. I love when he nibbles on my hair or nudges me for treats; it’s like he’s saying, “Let’s have some fun!”

One of my favorite memories with Oreo was during my first show. I was a little nervous, but Oreo seemed to sense it. As I got on him, he stood perfectly still, as if to say, “I’ve got this, Lila. Just relax.” During the competition, he was so focused. We trotted and cantered like pros, and I could feel our connection getting stronger with each stride. When we won our first ribbon together, I felt like we had achieved something amazing as a team.

Oreo shares his stable with Scotty, who is his pony friend and another Welch Pony only chestnut in color.   They often munch on hay together and play little games in their paddock. When Oreo is outside, he also hangs out with Chester,  a very large horse.  If Oreo ever gets startled by something unexpected, like a rustling bush or a loud noise, he perks up his head and looks around, almost like a llama! In those moments, I know I need to stay calm and reassure him. I give him a gentle pat and tell him it’s okay, and he usually settles down quickly.

One of the things I love most about Oreo is how he responds to my emotions. If I’m feeling happy, he’s playful and energetic. But if I’m feeling down or nervous, he seems to sense it and becomes extra gentle, nudging me softly or resting his head on my shoulder. It’s like he knows exactly what I need, and that makes our bond even more special.

Every day at the barn is an adventure. Whether we’re practicing new tricks, going on trail rides, or just enjoying some quiet time together, Oreo makes every moment memorable. I love bringing him treats like apples and carrots, and he gets so excited when he sees me coming with snacks. His little dance of joy when I pull out a treat always makes me laugh!

In the future, I hope to compete in more shows with Oreo and maybe even try out some new events. I dream of becoming a skilled rider, and I know that with Oreo by my side, I can achieve anything. He’s not just my pony; he’s my best friend, my teacher, and my partner in all things equestrian.

So if you ever see a pony with black and white spots and a big smile, that’s my Oreo! He’s more than just a pony; he’s family. My dad would say Oreo loves giving him hugs the most but I think he really loves being with me because we comfort each other and I really take good care of him too!  Thanks for reading about my amazing adventure with the best pony ever! And,I can’t wait to see what the future holds for us!