At 12 years old, Natalie Harder has developed a strong love for animals, sports, and her community. Since moving to Thornwood with her family in 2018, she has enjoyed getting involved in local activities, especially through her participation on the Thornwood Thunder swim team. “My favorite thing about this neighborhood is being able to participate on the swim team each summer with my friends,” she says.

However, Natalie’s favorite activity is horseback riding. Every Friday, she eagerly looks forward to her lessons at HorsePower Therapeutic Riding school. “I’ve loved animals since I was very young,” she recalls. “One winter, when I was just 3 or 4, my family and I went on a horse-drawn sleigh ride. I ran right up to the horse and gave him a big hug. Ever since, I’ve wanted to be around horses.”

Natalie’s journey with HorsePower began in 2020. Before her weekly riding lessons started, she attended “Critter Connections,” where she helped feed and care for donkeys, miniature horses, and other animals. Once a lesson spot became available, she eagerly took it, and Fridays have been her favorite day ever since. Recently, she celebrated her 100th riding lesson at HorsePower, receiving a ribbon and special recognition for the milestone.

Riding has given Natalie strength and confidence. “I’ve learned that horses are very special animals that have helped me grow stronger,” she shares. She enjoys riding a horse named Artie, but she remembers her first horse, Sammy, as one she had a special bond with. “Sammy was the first horse I really bonded with. He was sweet and cuddly and let me hug him,” she fondly recalls.

Natalie hopes to work with horses in the future and even dreams of becoming an instructor one day. For now, she continues to learn and grow under the guidance of her instructor, Miss Lacy, who has taught her since she began riding.

To others who may be hesitant to ride, Natalie offers this advice: “Don’t be afraid to try! Horses can be very friendly, and your instructor will help you every step of the way.”