My Life. My Blog.

I have stories to tell and stories to hear. There's never enough time to get them all in when you're working a show. If you know me, you know how much I enjoy the social aspect of horse shows. If you don’t know me, I hope you read along and become a friend. I decided to create this blog to give everyone insight into my life on “the other side of the rail."

I showed dogs professionally for 20 years prior to moving to Wisconsin which gives me insight into being a competitor. Since the fall of 2011 I have been working horse shows as a volunteer and paid staff both. I’ve filled most positions a show has: manager, office staff, gate person, ringmaster, warm-up paddock manager, clerk, equipment setup person and announcer. I was “show auntie” to my niece and nephew during their 4-H careers and now I’m a Horse and Pony Project Superintendent.

No matter what role I’m in my favorite part of a show, or horse event of any kind really, is hanging out with other horse enthusiasts while telling stories, sharing lessons learned, or learning new lessons myself. Sharing tips, tricks, and how-to's. Laughing over the “did that really happen” moments and hugging over the “tear your heart out” moments. The friendships developed during down time at a show are priceless. One of my goals is to bring that camaraderie and fun to this blog.

Another goal is to provide insight and information into what I’ve experienced as a member of the show staff. I enjoy talking about what it takes to run a show. There’s usually a variety of reactions when you’re talking about being part of the show staff. Those that have run, or worked at a show, often nod along because they’ve experienced similar circumstances. Those that have not are usually surprised. Many people do not understand what it takes to put on a show. The hours of prep work, on-site early, last to leave, little to no breaks, and in some cases the post show reporting to the national club.

Horses and horse people truly fill my soul with peace, passion, and joy. That's what I want to share with everyone. I plan to share those lessons I’ve learned, the tips and tricks I’ve figured out, stories from my life in general and who knows what else. You may even get to see some of the poems I've written or hear about my adventures as manager of the church's food pantry garden. I luv helping others learn and grow because that’s my favorite way to learn and grow myself.

I'm certain you'll hear about growing up in Iowa, showing dogs professionally, meeting hubby at a dog show, my heart horse Chans and topics I haven't even thought of. Supporting youth and why I feel that’s so important. All the wonderful people I've met along the way and my family who have encouraged and supported me. I'm a talker, and if you'll "listen," I'll talk. Maybe my readers will have some ideas along the way too. Who knows? This is a new adventure for me and I invite you to come along. Hopefully, you’ll laugh a bit, learn a bit and come back week after week.