That morning, we got up at the usual time, but I didn’t go out to do chores. Instead, I took a shower and put clean clothes on. Jolene freaked out. How did she know? It was our ORT scent work trial. Just a half-day event, and only 15 miles from home. Let the wiggle-dance begin. … Read more
The farrier came this week. Every year or so, he suggests I quit my day job and hold horses for him. He knows that in some people’s eyes, it would be a demotion. Every year, I consider it. It isn’t that my horses are perfect. It’s just that I never make things worse. The art … Read more
Be Brave Enough to Suck at Something New the meme said. Well, sign me up. Who knew it would be so remarkably easy. You should try it. I had a client several years ago who complained about her horse. He was too lazy; she needed a more advanced horse. Her horse told a different story. … Read more
One year ago, my friends were expecting a litter of Swedish Vallhund puppies. After gaining titles in conformation and performance, doing all the genetic testing, and endless preparation, it was finally time. I’d cheered for my friends all the way and was excited about the little ones, who already had puppy homes waiting. One year … Read more
May I brag? I have celebrated the death of embarrassment. It was a freedom I gained by competing horses. Horses are transparent and spontaneous about how they feel. When something happens, it’s obvious to the rider. And some of us even paid the judge to notice. It’s the fast track to realizing you can’t make … Read more
There were always horses, some light and some dark. The woman met them in passing or they stayed forever; some were proud and some stayed hidden deep within. After the gelding stumbled and fell, trapping the woman’s leg, breaking her loose from her fairytale romance, the woman and the horse were set on equal footing. … Read more
I know people who read cookbooks like they’re high-drama best sellers. I know people who fantasize wild lives of pirate adventure reading travel bloggers. It’s all good, just not for me. I like being in the barn. Want to know a secret? I never had a dream to be a professional trainer. I wanted … Read more
“Oh, just admiration,” the gray horsewoman said, pale eyes deep in tan skin. “Always kinda liked ’em…” But when she exhaled there was a throaty sound, deep and soft, with a faint whisper of a nicker. Anna Blake, Infinity Farm. (WordPress Photo Challenge is a weekly prompt to share a photo–I enjoy twisting these … Read more