Ever since I can remember, I've been more than a little horse crazy, but so was every other little girl in my elementary school. When my family purchased Thunder, a good old plodder of a Welsh pony, I still didn't really understand the responsibility or commitment of horse ownership. It wasn't until my second try at a horse in eighth grade that I began to comprehend the horse world.

1. It's expensive.

Sure, everyone knows you spend a decent amount of cash on the initial purchase of a horse, but then come the annual vet bills, emergency vet bills, payments for boarding, show fees, farrier payments and tack. The only way around it is to wrap your horse in bubble wrap and never actually do anything with him or her.

2. You're going to get hurt.

It's not a matter of if, but when. Some falls will be worse than others, but if you're a true horse-person, you'll get right back on while the ambulance is on its way.

3. You won't "click" with every horse.

In fifth grade, I had a horse I did not get along with. He would refuse to move or refuse to stop, which was pretty intimidating compared to our trusty old pony gelding. Many people of the horse world have gone through a very similar situation.

4. Horse movies will never be the same.

Hollywood doesn't understand horses. Almost every horse movie is terribly inaccurate to the point of being annoying. Do people really think horses constantly make noises?

5. You will become strangely fond of the horse smell.

It's perfectly normal to seek every possible opportunity to sniff your horse. No judgment.

6. Some days you'll want to quit more than anything.

Your horse is being stupid, everyone is judging your riding style and you can't take it any more. You're ready to put away your boots for good. I've definitely been there. Give yourself a day to cool off and remember why you love those crazy beasts.

7. Mares are unbelievably sassy.

If you don't know it yet, you will soon; mares are moody, temperamental and often more frustrating. They're also, in my opinion, 100 percent more fun.

8. You will find any excuse to stage a photo shoot.

Exhibit A.

Exhibit B.

Exhibit C.

You get the point.

9. Your nails will never be beautifully manicured again.

You'll be extremely lucky if polish lasts a day, let along the fingernail itself.

10. The good should outweigh the bad.

Despite the expenses and injuries, you should enjoy time with your horse. When you begin to dread it, it's time to reconsider. It's not fair to you, or the horse, if your heart isn't in it.

That being said, the relationship I have with my horse is one that I valuable more than almost anything else.