December 5, 2014 
Who can forget their first pony? Galloping across open fields, falling off in mud puddles, and beating out the bigger guys at horse shows, the two of you were inseparable—and usually in some kind of trouble. Little did you know that the adventures you had in those early days would serve you for the rest of your life.
Here are 10 lessons that only your first pony could teach you.
#1.
(flickr.com/John/Pony with Carrot)
Carrots and mints work nicely.
#2.
“Hello, Little Miss Cinderella Cupcake” (flickr.com/julochka)
Ponies named after nursery rhymes, Disney characters, and dessert (including but not limited to candy, ice cream flavors, and pie) need not apply.
#3. 
(flickr.com/Maia C/The Little Cowgirl)
As long as they’re not riding in Leadline.
#4.
(equineink.files.wordpress.com)
Exceptions include: liverpools/coffin jumps, other ponies pulling carts, loud clippers, large dogs, traffic cones, or summer lesson programs.
#5.
(flickr.com/Cate/OBS June ’14 Undertack)
But one bath a year is more than sufficient.
#6.
(newrider.com/popularfurball)
And if you ever tighten my girth like that again, I’m going to bite your armpit.
#7.
(flickr.com/Rob Kleine/Christmas Ass)
Let the dog wear the costumes.
#8.
(flickr.com/Mark Robinson/Dartmoor Pony)
Because no one ever died from using a curry comb.
#9.
(flickr.com/eric lynch/Ponies preparing for American Idol)
…But not required.
#10. 
(Flickr.com/Thowra_uk)
And again. And again…
Share your fondest “first pony” memories in the comments below. Don’t be bashful…we’re all friends here.
