Happy 5 Year Annie-versary

 

And just like that, half a decade has passed.

This morning  I spent some time looking back at all that we've been through the last five years and I can't help but almost laugh at some of my worries and woes that plagued us. The canter struggles seem beyond ridiculous to worry so frantically about.

It's easy to step back and see how insignificant it all was when I can see the bigger picture now. 

Like looking back at her first year showing and 
obsessively worrying about X, Y, Z when all I 
needed to be worried about was giving the horse a
solid experience. (Which, to be fair, I was worried about too ;) )

Although, isn't that always the way? Things seem really bad in the moment, but when you are out of the flames, you can't help but look back and think, "Well, that wasn't that bad."

In the last five years this mare has taught me more about my ability to persevere and to trust my gut instinct more times than I can count. 

Of course, she has also tested me. 

Riding green horses sure is enlightening.

Broke me.

And made me whole all over again.

While I have a good idea of what 2022 has in store for us, I cannot predict everything and am choosing and manifesting that it is going to be a good year.

With the last two years of tumultuous health problems, I can finally see the other side and am hopeful. I feel like we're in a good place and have a good backing of support that we can finally move forwards. Of course, Late Spring will always be a nerve-wracking time as pollen falls and seasonal allergens rear their ugly head but I am remaining hopeful that with the immunotherapy, paddock changes and hay steaming that we have a good solid lead on her triggers. 

This year is going to be full of big, exciting changes and I cannot wait to see my mare's goofy mug poking out over a stall door in my barn. 

Man.

What a crazy journey the last five years have been.

2017:

2018:

2019:

2020:

2021:

While the last two years have looked pretty different, I am looking forward to seeing what this year brings and I am keeping positive that we may just be able to dust off the tall boots once again. Of course, Annie's comfort and health come first, always.

Happy Annie-versary, and here is to many more wonderful healthy years <3