My Equine Journey: From Childhood Ponies to Equine Therapy

One of my favorite quotes states “In order to find your purpose, discover your passion”. My enduring affection for horses and dedication to aiding others have merged on a gratifying path. I wanted to take some time to share my equine journey.

Foundations in Childhood

The seeds of my equine passion were planted in childhood, blossoming when I received a pony named Freedom at eight years old. This gift was not just about joy rides but introduced responsibility and the value of hard work early on. I spent countless hours in the stables, learning the ropes of horse care and the commitment required to maintain these magnificent creatures. This early exposure was not just an activity but a formative part of my upbringing, solidifying my lifelong bond with horses.

Growth Through Adolescence

My teenage years were enriched with competitive riding and involvement in 4-H programs, which taught me discipline and improved my equestrian skills. My journey took a significant turn when I embarked on a mission to rescue Roxy, a spirited filly, which taught me the importance of resilience and patience. Subsequent years brought triumphs like winning a state championship with my beloved horse Toby, experiences that not only enhanced my skills but deepened my emotional connection to equine life.

Overcoming Challenges

Life with horses also came with its share of heartache. Losing Mac, a horse very dear to me, was a profound loss that taught me about grief and the strength required to move forward. Additionally, dealing with health issues with Jiggy, my gentle giant, underscored the importance of perseverance and the depth of the bond shared between a horse and its caretaker.

Professional Pathways

Choosing a career path wasn’t straightforward. Initially drawn toward the medical field, my direction shifted to physical therapy during college—a choice that became clear after requiring physical therapy myself following a car accident in high school. This experience illuminated how I could blend my desire to help people with practical skills, setting me on my professional journey.

The Genesis of Crossroads Corral

The inception of Crossroads Corral came from a heartfelt discussion in a barn with Julie, a friend and fellow equine enthusiast. Recognizing our shared passion for horses and community service, we envisioned a nonprofit that could harness the therapeutic power of horses to aid those in need. After obtaining the necessary certifications and establishing our 501(c)(3) status, we launched our initiative. Today, Crossroads Corral offers equine therapy to at-risk youth, women and veterans, combining our love for horses with our commitment to community healing.

Living the Dream

Now, I live my dream every day, supported by an incredible team at Crossroads Corral and my supportive husband, David. We are driven by a vision to expand our services, aiming to offer them free of charge through a sustainable model that also supports horse rescue efforts.

Evolving with Passion

As our nonprofit grows, so does our impact. We’ve witnessed firsthand how equine therapy can transform lives, offering peace and healing to those who have endured significant challenges. Our goal is to continue expanding our reach, allowing more individuals to experience the transformative power of equine therapy.

Find your Passion and follow your dreams

I believe everyone has a unique purpose, often found through their passions. If you’re searching for your path, I encourage you to explore what excites you, what challenges you, and what feels inherently right. Embracing your passions can lead to profound discoveries and rewarding journeys.

Reflections and Gratitude

Reflecting on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for every experience that has led me here. From my first pony to my current role at Crossroads Corral, each step has been essential in shaping who I am today. I am thankful for the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the joy that horses have brought into my life.

Final Thoughts

The journey I’ve had with horses has been very rewarding.

As I look to the future, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. With ongoing support from our community and continued dedication to our cause, I am confident that we can achieve our goals and make a lasting impact. We will continue to make strides in equine therapy through Crossroads Corral and change lives, one horse and one human at a time.

I also hope that I can help others with a passion for horses to learn, be inspired and elevate their equine experience through our work at Saddle Serenity. At Saddle Serenity, we will explore the joy of horse ownership, offer tips for horse care, and review products that enhance our equine adventures. We are working to make it a valuable resource and hope that it will help elevate your equine experience! Thanks for stopping by.