As I write this column, it’s mid-January. Like every year, I struggle with the darkness and rain. I’m always looking for ways to get motivated and stay uplifted. I find Starbucks, a good ride, a warm fire, and a heartwarming movie always seems to do the trick. I often wonder if it isn’t the same for our equine friends. My horses spend most of the winter months in the barn and sacrifice areas since our pastures get pretty waterlogged. The coffee and movie might not be what they need, but I’m sure they like some activity as much as I do.
I’ve actually been riding this winter. Between lessons, working cows at Double S Quarter Horses, and test riding a Rocky Mountain Horse at Stride Right Farms (see page ??), it’s been a stimulating month. One of the most rewarding parts was the opportunity to reacquaint myself with my senior horse, Dawn. Neither one of us had ever worked cows before, and Dawn is having as much fun as I am with the experience. Just goes to show…you’re never too old!
Another way to get past the winter "blahs" is to look ahead. I'm already getting excited about the three shows NWHS will be going to in March: The Lower Mainland Quarter Horse Bazaar in Langley, BC; the Northwest Reined Cowhorse Show in Lynden, WA; and the NW Horse Fair and Expo in Albany, OR. I’d love the opportunity to meet you at one of these events. We’re having a reader appreciation day at the Northwest Reined Cowhorse Show on Saturday, March 22. You can meet "On the Plus Side" columnist Allison Trimble and watch her compete, plus we will have some specials just for show attendees and spectators!
As for last month's challenge, I was somewhat disappointed that I only got one email about someone's “perfect day.” My hope is that the lack of messages means you were all out there living that day for yourselves. Still, what better way to keep the perfection alive than to share it with someone else? We really do want interaction from our readers. If you’ve had an awesome day and would like to share it with us, send me an email at karern@nwhorsesource.com. I’ll be waiting!
Have a super March...and remember to ride!
"Experience shows that success is due less to ability than to zeal. The winner is he who gives himself to his work, body and soul." -Charles Buxton, 1823-1871, British Author
