How Horses Have Impacted My Life

Growing up I’ve always had an interest in horses, but recently I got my very own horse, Cowboy.

Katie through TR 4 Heart and Soul connected us with the Peeks family regarding a 6-year-old bay quarter horse gelding previously used for roping. We planned a night to go and meet Cowboy, previously called “One Time,” and to our surprise we met a sweet, goofy, and photogenic horse that we instantly fell in love with.

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After purchasing Cowboy, he remained at his previous barn where we were taught some of the basics from caregiving to riding horses. Through spending time with Cowboy, I was able to come out of my box and meet numerous people through 4-H and other horse events. This not only changed my experience in the horse world, but also reflected in my daily life outside of horses.

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One thing Cowboy has taught me is horses have a personality. Like people they have their own moods. When I am in a bad mood, Cowboy can sense it. He does not go and do the things I want him to do. So soon after we moved to TR for Heart and Soul where I got to meet more people, and I got to have lessons with Kate Oakland, and Mardi Jo Beard helped me. So I can be a better rider and build my confidence.

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One of my favorite things is I am better at saddling-up Cowboy than my parents. I learned several things from the Peeks, 4-H and TR, and of course my cousin Mandy. Everyone does stuff a little different, and we can all learn from each other. We just have to see what works best for us.

I have been practicing on barrels. I learned Cowboy loves doing the poles. Cowboy and I both love to go on trail rides. They make the best adventures with Milia and her horse Diamond.

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Horses aren’t all fun and games. They can be a lot of work, brushing, feeding, and cleaning up after them. Also a lot of worry. At the end of the day I know that no matter what, Cowboy has stolen my heart.