Thank you!

Wow! What a year this has turned out to be. It’s been a while since I’ve been able to write. Yes … able to.

At the beginning of 2022 I had every intention of publishing blogs more often and being more proactive in every area of my life. All those grand plans that sound so doable at the beginning of the year were derailed by pretty serious health issues. I had to focus on healing, which meant hobbies and passions were put on a back burner for a time. There was a point I wasn't sure I could make all of the shows I had booked, which had me pretty worried. So, I embarked on a journey of recovery. And, thanks to a bunch of people, I did not miss a show!

You’ve all been through hard journeys in life and you know the ups and downs that come with them. You know the emotional and physical toll they can take on you and those around you. I’m not going to focus on all those details here. This wasn’t my first healing journey and it won’t be my last most likely. But it was my first one since starting a blog about working horse shows. Writing this blog gave me a different way to look at my journey. What I realized, is that I am blessed with the most amazing people in my life. Their support allowed me to keep working shows this year. Now that I have finished physical therapy and things are on the mend, I can write again. That’s the part of my journey I want to share with you.

Everyday I am grateful for the support system I have at home. They have been nothing short of over the top supportive this year. My hubby, family, and close friends have always been there for me and they continue to be. They help me get through the daily highs and lows that come with healing. They took care of things I couldn’t, filled in when I wasn’t up to it, understood when I missed things and researched new and different ideas to speed up the process. I appreciate them beyond what I could ever put into words. If not for them, there’s no way I could have kept doing the things I love. My horse show family also had a big impact on my life this year.

I had no idea they would be there for me in such an impactful way. They stepped up in ways I didn't know I needed help with. When I was at shows, the other staff and competitors came to my aide on several occasions. They wrote results, carried bags, opened doors, and did anything else my hands wouldn't do. They understood when I couldn't go out for supper and needed to rest. They were there for me emotionally. Listening, hugging, and regularly checking in on me. When I had no makeup on and my hair was in a bun, they said "good morning beautiful." When I got so overwhelmed the tears couldn't be held back, they gave me a hug until it passed. I got to go for a couple incredible rides (more to come on those in a future blog 😊). They checked in with me in between shows to see how I was doing. There were several occasions where I was awestruck by their outpouring of support. I've gotten to know my show family much more deeply than ever this past year and it’s been a bright spot to focus on.

I know so many people deal with health challenges and life issues, big and small, while still making it to the show. While taking care of their obligations. While continuing to live life. I know many of the people that took a moment to help and support me were going through their own journey. I am honored and grateful that so many helped me stay on the Other Side of the Rail this year. My sincerest “thank you” goes out to everyone that helped me along the way and continues to do so.