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JoAnn Shannon

Hobby Happiness

Updated: Sep 13

Yesterday, I received another rejection for my book. Although it is discouraging, I can now say that my book has been rejected by some of the best literary agencies in the country.

Writing is a challenging hobby with many humbling experiences. When I become discouraged with writing books for kids, I focus on my riding.

Later, when I rode my horse, we did tremendously well on the flat. However, when we jumped, my pacing was way off.

Riding is a challenging hobby with many humbling experiences. When I become discouraged with riding, I focus on my writing.

However, the single most beautiful difference between these two hobbies is my horse. He holds a significant place in my soul. He’s both a partner and a friend. But our relationship is a new one, so sometimes I wonder if he’s happy.

The March 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated has a great article, "5 Questions to Determine Horse Happiness" by Aimee Elyse Robinson. This article describes some visible signs of relaxation and contentment:


  • A horse that is attentive to and engaged with their environment.

  • A soft, round eye with regular blinking.

  • Slightly lowered and more relaxed head position.

  • Posture that may not be perfectly square; for example, resting a hind foot.

  • Relaxed and loose bottom lip, possibly displaying a slightly gaping mouth.


What a relief! My horse exhibits many of these qualities.

Now, if only I could measure a literary agent’s happiness with a similar checklist. Would you be happier if the plot was stronger? Would it make you happier if the protagonist was younger? May I resubmit when you’re in a happier mood?



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