From My Saddle
The Tides of Change….
by Karen Pickering
October 31, 2005

The tides of change are constantly shifting. Sometimes the changes are subtle. The days are shorter, there’s a chill in the night air or the leaves show a tinge of red. Some changes we take for granted and embrace. Couples get married and babies are born. These changes come and quietly mark the passage of time. At other times change comes roaring in like a tornado bringing terror, chaos and devastation in its path. For the NWHS this has been one of those months.

A few weeks ago one of our team members, Mary Trout, was diagnosed with an inoperable malignant brain tumor. Just four weeks ago things were moving along just fine. Mary, her family and I were able to get away, ride, visit and relax at a church camp near Deming. Life just doesn’t get much better than that.

Today looks very different for all of us. Mary is on what has already been a long and exhausting journey with cancer. As this issue goes to press Mary has completed seven weeks of chemotherapy and radiation in hopes of reducing the tumor. Through all of this upheaval her attitude has been inspiring. She’s looking at this as just another challenge to take on. Her smile is just as bright and the warmth I feel just being around her hasn’t changed. Take some time to read this story of incredible faith and learn how you may be involved offering support and encouragement during this difficult journey (See page 12).

Your patience and understanding through this difficult time is sincerely appreciated. We are committed to bringing you the best information and resources we can. This month we finish up our Reader’s survey (See page 47).

Visit us this month at Heritage Park in Chilliwack, BC, October 21-23 (verify dates) for the Mane Event. We look forward to meeting you and hearing about your horse or interest in horses. Stop by our booth and say Hi!

In this issue we bring you information on securing an education in the equine field. See the article on page 6 for five great options to get you started.

Spend time to enjoy life. I’ve been reminded this month that we just never know what lies around the next turn. Thank you for being a part of the Northwest Horse Source magazine.

Have a great fall and remember to ride!



Copyright © 2008 The NW Horse Source