Mareth Ellsworth, Monroe, talks about her best friends Jane, a 14-year-old quarter horse and thoroughbred mix, and Classy, a 12-year-old miniature horse. 

Ellsworth has lived in Monroe since 2011 and has had horses since she was 6 years old. 

Ellsworth got Jane more than 10 years ago after saving her from going to slaughter while she owned a horse stable in Louisiana. Jane is one of four rescue horses Ellsworth has taken in throughout the years. Her other rescue horses are Dixie, Sebastian and Stella. 

She got Classy after she saw a sign advertising miniature horses. In order to get Classy, the seller said she had to buy all three horses that were there — so she brought home Classy, Duke and Rosie. Three days later, to their disbelief, Classy gave birth to Surprise. 

Now, retired from horse training, competition and showmanship, Ellsworth travels all around the area with her horses for M&M Pony Rides, where she gives pony rides to children at different events and parties. 

Describe Jane and Classy’s personalities. 

Jane is very mild. You could put a 2-year-old on her. She likes trail-riding and hunter-jumper courses. I’ve taught a lot of lessons with her. She loves cross-country jumping. 

Classy is sweet. So sweet. So gentle. She loves attention and loves to be ridden. The kids just love her at the pony parties. She’s so pretty and has a pleasant personality.

What do you like to do together?

We do a lot of birthday parties, family reunions, school festivals and block parties. When I’m not working, I’ll take some of them trail riding at Lake Le-Aqua-Na State Park. 

I’m a burnt-out trainer and I’ve been all over the U.S. except the northeast. I’ve gotten so I never want to go to another horse show. I’m tired of training and teaching. I do still do some lessons for children, but I don’t ride so much at home. Been there, done that.  

My riding students in Louisiana gave me the idea for these pony parties. They always would ask to have their birthday party at the stable so their friends could ride the ponies. I love it. I get to travel and I meet the most wonderful people. And, it’s a party instead a high-stress horse show. 

What has it been like having Jane and Classy in your life?

I couldn’t live without them. I’ve never lived without them, except when I went to boarding school. They’re my friends. They’re my best friends. I have traveled all around the country and anywhere I went I could always get friends immediately at the stable. They give me such love and joy.