Let’s set the scene: You're at a horse show. The sun is shining, hooves are polished, and there’s that electric mix of nerves and excitement in the air. But then... someone does something “not quite by the book.” Maybe their headgear isn't right. Maybe their tack is slightly wrong. Maybe their horse is... a little … Continue reading Let People Enjoy Their Horses: Why Kindness at Events Matters More Than You Think
From Chaos to Courtesy: How to Be a Dream Horse Show Exhibitor
Horse shows are a unique kind of event — full of passion, precision, and proud moments. But behind every polished performance and seamless class is a hard-working network of show staff, secretaries, ring stewards, volunteers, and committee members making sure it all happens. Whether you compete in Arabian breed shows or the detailed world of … Continue reading From Chaos to Courtesy: How to Be a Dream Horse Show Exhibitor
The Gate Doesn’t Open Itself: Why Volunteers Are the Backbone of Every Horse Show
I’ve been part of the horse show world for over twenty years. From teenage gate opener to show secretary and board member, I’ve seen every side of how a show comes together. And if there’s one truth that remains constant, it’s this: None of it works without volunteers. We love to spotlight the competitors, the … Continue reading The Gate Doesn’t Open Itself: Why Volunteers Are the Backbone of Every Horse Show
Life Lessons Horses Teach Us (Without Saying a Word)
Let’s be real: horses are way more than four-legged hay vacuums. They’re therapists in tack, personal growth coaches with manes, and trotting reminders of what really matters. Sure, they can’t talk—but boy, do they teach! So saddle up, because these are the real-life lessons horses sneak into your heart while you're just trying to pick … Continue reading Life Lessons Horses Teach Us (Without Saying a Word)
Four Favorites: Everyday Barn Must-Haves I Swear By
Welcome to the first post in my new blog series, Four Favorites — where I share the tried-and-true essentials that make my life easier, more comfortable, and (let's be honest) a little more fun around the barn. Whether you're in the muck every morning or just love a good pair of paddock boots, these are … Continue reading Four Favorites: Everyday Barn Must-Haves I Swear By
Horse Shows are Exhausting (but I keep going anyway)
Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get enough air time: horse shows are exhausting. Like, “someone hand me a large McDonald's Coke and a chiropractor” kind of exhausting. And after being on the road for four of the last five weekends, I feel like I’ve earned the right to shout it from the rooftops (or … Continue reading Horse Shows are Exhausting (but I keep going anyway)
The Rollercoaster of Horse Shows
They say the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results—and honestly, I’m convinced that applies to showing horses more than just about anything else. I’ve been in the show ring for over twenty years now. That’s two decades of early mornings, fly spray battles, hurry up … Continue reading The Rollercoaster of Horse Shows
Favorite Product Spotlight
🧤 Favorite Product Spotlight: Roeckl Grip Gloves from SmartPak Roeckl Grip Gloves Let’s talk about something every rider needs but often doesn’t give enough credit to: a really good pair of gloves. Whether you're schooling at home, heading out on a trail ride, or polishing your boots for the show ring, the right gloves make … Continue reading Favorite Product Spotlight
Prepping for Shows
We’re about two and a half weeks out from our next horse show, and that means it’s time to dial in our prep routine. I thought it’d be fun to share how I manage things leading up to a show—because let’s be honest, there’s a lot more to it than just shining tack and packing … Continue reading Prepping for Shows
What Made Me Want to Show
The internet was growing fast and furious when I was in middle school and junior high. I remember traveling to an entirely different town to take lessons on internet use and a bit of basic HTML coding. I loved it! I was hooked. At some point, I found online horse simulation games, known to that … Continue reading What Made Me Want to Show