Since my only child became an adult, my Christmas Days have been merry ones, spent in bed sipping something fancy. But this year I got my *** up and into outdoor clothes, pulled on my boots and headed to the barn to spend the day with my new horse. The usual cat lady mug in my stocking was swapped out for a horse mom one, and my non-horsey husband has admitted that he’s been upgraded to now-horsey husband. Here’s to many more horsey Christmases (and enjoy the video above of a Christmas made very special!).
U.S. Weekend Preview
It’s that time of year – nothing to add here.
Wednesday News and Reading
“A pony won’t fit on the sleigh” was a seasonal refrain repeated more than jingle bells in our house – it almost became a family Christmas tradition. It turns out, though, that sometimes Santa does manage to make kids’ horsey dreams come true. Here’s a round-up of reactions to getting the ultimate Christmas wish. [Best. Christmas. Ever]
It’s the perfect time to add a bit of flavor to your arena work by changing things up. These ten exercises are a handy way to break out of the rut that is the outside track and give you and your horse something to really think about. [Variety is the Spice of Life (and Arena Work)]
Riding bareback isn’t for everyone, but for Janet Jones, it’s a pretty awesome feeling. She shares her story of her love affair with bareback riding – from learning to ride right from the beginning sans saddle to navigating the fact that vaulting onto a horse in your forties is not quite the same as when you’re twenty-something. There are also some great tips for how to get started if you fancy it. [Au Naturel]
It’s always a good time to celebrate the people who are making a difference in the world through horses. From helping at-risk children to supporting US equestrian teams reach the pinnacle of their sports, find out about four individuals whose work is having a real impact. [Change Makers]
And finally, our friends at Horse Nation have rounded up some festive Thoroughbred names. Yes, Santa Claus is on there, but poor Rudolph doesn’t seem to be any more popular in the racing world than he is with the other reindeer. Check out who did make the cut. [Season’s Greetings]
Sponsor Corner
Looking for a new home for the new year? Ocala Horse Properties has the beautiful Oaks & Meadows Farm for sale. This ten stall barn is only 20 minutes from WEC and features a 2 acre fully stocked pond.
Video Break
I always think this time between Christmas and New Year is a bit of a waiting game, and what better way to while away six hours than watching some throwback cross country?
