Reflection

As 2024 draws to a close, this past month has been a time of profound lessons, deep grief, and unexpected gratitude. It’s incredible how much life can teach you in such a short span of time, even when the lessons come with heartbreak.

One of the biggest moments this month was bringing a new horse into our herd. He was everything we had hoped for—full of potential, personality, and a spirit that fit right in with the rest of the barn. Watching him settle in was a joy, and it felt like the beginning of something special. But just as quickly as he came into our lives, he was gone. Losing him so suddenly was devastating.

The grief has been heavy, like a weight I didn’t know how to carry at first. There’s nothing quite like losing an animal you’ve already started to bond with. It’s a reminder of how fragile life is, and how quickly the plans we make can be uprooted. But in the middle of that sorrow, I found gratitude—gratitude for the short time we had with him, for the lessons he taught us, and for the rest of the herd that continues to bring us comfort and joy.

This experience has reminded me of the value of persistence. Between the demands of work, running the shop, and my personal goals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or stuck. But this month has shown me that even in the face of grief, pushing through—one day, one moment at a time—leads to growth. Progress may feel slow or invisible, but every step matters, especially when you’re walking through difficult times.

As I reflect on this month and the year as a whole, I’m struck by how much I’ve learned about patience, resilience, and holding space for both sorrow and joy. At the beginning of 2024, I wasn’t sure what the year would hold, but I committed to growing with each day and putting myself out there like never before. From riding through the breathtaking trails of Medora, ND, to exploring the rugged beauty of the Black Hills, and even taking the leap to start my barrel racing journey, this year has been full of challenges, growth, and unforgettable experiences. It’s been a year of unexpected turns, but also one of courage, love, and deep gratitude.

As 2025 approaches, I’m carrying these lessons with me: to cherish the time we have, to keep moving forward even when it’s hard, and to find gratitude in every moment—even the painful ones. I’m stepping into the new year ready to embrace the challenges that come my way, knowing they will help me grow and become stronger. I’ve learned that success isn’t measured by what you win monetarily but by the goals you achieve, the dreams you pursue, and the memories you create along the way. Whether it’s checking off items on my bucket list or finding joy in the little victories, I’m determined to make 2025 a year of purpose, progress, and fulfillment.

December 30th, 2024