Looking at all the photos that have been shared since The Queen’s passing, so many of them capture her in a moment of pure joy while in the company of dogs and horses.⁠ ⁠ As Queen we loved her for being kind, consistent and patient – all things that these often unpredictable animals will respond to with a mutual tenderness. It is a relationship based on natural instinct, understanding and respect, with no place for status or ego. ⁠ ⁠ As an animal lover myself, I can only imagine that during these quiet moments riding she was at one with nature, in sync with the horses' natural rhythm – and for a short while a simple countrywoman rather than a sovereign. Ever since I was a little girl, I too have felt that a day with horses is a happy and fulfilling one. ⁠ ⁠ This shared passion for horses and joy found in racing is best summed-up by Her Majesty herself in this wonderful quote I came across:⁠ ⁠ ‘Were it not for the Archbishop of Canterbury I should be off to Longchamp every Sunday.’