This Thursday, Gus and I (along with Jeff, Kate, and Wade) will head to Virginia to compete in our first ever one star. It has been a dream of mine to be able to compete with Gus at the FEI levels, but one that I was beginning to believe would never happen. Before the packing frenzy begins, I would just like to take a minute to write down some of my thoughts…..
I decided this summer to “get on with it”. Gus was sound and jumping better than ever. I was turning 40, and I didn’t want to ever say “I wish I would have……”. I headed to Young Riders’ Camp in Michigan where I spoke my hopes to do Intermediate out loud in public for the first time. It was at the Young Riders’ Camp where I made the connections with Elissa. After that, I was committed to the process. I drove to Lexington every week for lessons. We followed the strict training/conditioning schedule that Elissa gave us. Gus and I galloped at Twin Towers every Friday morning, and we competed in shows to get us ready for competion. I have spent thousands of dollars on FEI, — USEF, and — USEA memberships, vet bills, adequan injections, lessons, dressage attire, entry fees, and a national passport for Gus. The hours that I have spent in preparation for this one show is nearly unbelievable, and at times made me question whether or not any of this was worthwhile. Looking back now, it has been one of the greatest learning experiences of my life…..for so many reasons.
So before things get too crazy this week, I want to say thank you to some really important people for helping me and Gus get to this point.
To Jeff—for allowing me the chance to live out my dreams while he tries to live out his simultaneously. I know it hasn’t been easy (or cheap!) to live here so that I could train and be a stay at home mom at the same time. Thank you for this farm (and especially for Gus).
To our parents….. for helping us with our kids whenever (and I mean, “whenever”) we have needed help.
To our Wetherbrooke Farm Barn Girls–Thank you for all of the extra time you have spent helping me out when I have been gone. For taking fantastic care of Gus (and all of the others). And for all of the words of encouragement. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by the greatest students/boarders/employees/ and friends. I hope we make you proud this weekend !
God is good, and I thank Him for keeping Gus sound and me safe throughout this journey.