Confession: When the world turns to chaos, and you are scared, it is best to focus on the small things.  Riders know the power of a positive mindset and visualizing what you want to happen. We, as a whole, need to do this now. Rise above the hysteria and fear and come together as a community to support each other. Chaos has a way of bringing out the extremes in humanity, both good and ill. I choose to put all my focus on the positive. In the good.  My family is at home, safe and confused, but together. My husband has a job that not only allows him to work…

Confession: I often find it hard to maintain a work/family/horse balance. Raise your hand if you can relate. Are you with me? I moved to a new barn and am getting to know everyone. Very quickly the conversation turned to how often (or not) we ride. Three out of four of us were lamenting how we don’t spend enough time riding because of work and other responsibilities and want to make this a priority this year. The past few six months my travel increased, my clients increased, and my kid’s needs increased. As a result my time at the barn significantly decreased. I honestly don’t know how other adult equestrians…

I find time in the saddle especially on the trails is extremely grounding. There is something about being in the middle of the woods away from cars, noise, and technology that speaks to my soul. Doing that on horseback? I can’t think of a better way to spend me time. I have always found this to be true. Some may consider me high maintenance (I do love my luxuries). Yet my earliest memories are of me slipping away to the large park near my home and venturing into the unpopulated creek to sit on the damn and read, catch bullfrogs, or simply appreciate the moment. I would leave feeling recharged…

Why do I hold myself back? That is the question isn’t it? Why do I put up walls. I need to focus on breaking down the equestrian barriers and learn to relax, let go, and step outside of my comfort zone. My friends meeting at the Tom Quilty endurance race in Australia asked the question, “Why doesn’t Heather ride like she dances?” Growing up I was passionate about two things, dancing and horses. The former discipline I am confident, unapologetic, and free. I’ve performed in front of crowds and danced multiple disciplines. The latter? Often the opposite. When they asked this question, I really thought about it because they are…

Confession: I realize it is an unpopular opinion but I really dislike the summer. I am a creature of habit and organization. Chaos, disorganization, and noise these all feed my anxiety as a Type-A personality and introvert. When the final school bell rings and my children are cheering for sweet release from their education for a few months, I cringe. It’s not that I don’t love my children. I LOVE my children. But I also love myself. I need quiet time. I need to ride my horse. I need to be able to have a regular work schedule. 1.Less time at the barn. The summer brings intense heat and humidity…