Reflections of a Riding Coach

“Mr Smith, I think for the sake of your daughter’s well-being, you should invest in a horse…” Reading an article about the effects smartphones and social media have on us, I‘d say the science is confirming that uneasiness many of us have our ever-present screens.  Could it be we’re designed to thrive in real community … Read moreA case to be made for saddle time vs. screen time!

Volunteers – giving of themselves for the benefit of others. Working together  toward a bigger story than their own.  I had pleasure (and fun!) of working with staff and volunteers at two therapeutic riding facilities over the last two weekends.  It’s SO easy to get lost in our own stories, isn’t it? Scrolling screens, and … Read moreVolunteers. Getting involved in a bigger story!

Family Day.  Thinking of all the families who have been part of my barn family in many years of coaching riders! Teens riding, while mom and dad master leg bandaging and leg ups. Or one spouse in the saddle with the other driving the RV and videotaping the class. Horse shows can pull families together…and … Read moreHorse Show families

As 2018 ran out of racetrack, I reflected on what I love about being a freelance riding coach. 1. The barn aisle conversations about riding, family and life. 2. I love driving! A transition window to consider my lesson plan, the unique personality of the horse and rider and flip through my mental Rolodex of … Read moreReflections of a freelance riding coach

Here we are again, at the gate of a new year – it’s like entering the show ring, walking up the chute, through the in-gate… and into the unknown – do you feel the butterflies?? I love this quote when I get those butterflies mixed with anticipation as I wonder what the coming year will … Read moreAt the in-gate of a new year…

As the year runs out of racetrack, I reflect on what I love about being a freelance riding coach. The barn aisle conversations about riding, family and life. I love driving! A transition window to consider my lesson plan, the unique personality of the horse and rider and flip through my mental Rolodex of solutions … Read moreWhat I love about being a freelance riding coach.

Many years ago, I remember the frustration of trying to convince a resistant horse onto a trailer at a horse show. “Don’t you understand?? This is the only way home!!”(meltdown moment) “If I could only become a horse, I’d show you there’s nothing to be afraid of!” Come to think of it, that’s the essence … Read moreTrailer loading and the Christmas story.