I am from loving the fluffy Golden Retriever with a black spot on his tongue
and turning that love of the family dog into adoring 1100 pound free spirits.
From trying to ride Blaze like a horse, the start of a life-changing adventure...
I am from plastic play horses and a Polly Pocket barn
and reading my first horse book.
From horseback riding lessons with over-stretched legs because the palomino horse was too fat, and baby pink cowgirl boots connecting feet to legs… 
I am from going over my first jump and saying, “I felt like I was flying!”
and smiling at how far I came.
From working with a horse that ran like lightning when the starting gate opened.

I am from “Don’t give up. Try again” and determination that helped horse and rider work as one
and hearing “I have never seen Cal go that slow!”
From accomplishment when Cal and I win a well earned ribbon.
I am from Friday nights getting the bay colored Thoroughbred ready for the show 
and Brittany helping on Friday night, sleeping over, and joining me on Saturday.
From preparing myself at 5:00 AM to kickstart a show day.
I am from warm and thick black English show jackets, knee high black boots, black helmet,
and a shiny race horse pin on the collar of my shirt.
From ribbons and cheering on others saying, “Good job, you did great!”

I am from breathing in the horse smell after stepping through the barn door
and smiling because I will see the horse.
From horse hugs, goofy faces, and Cal nodding his head, asking for a treat or two more.
I am from horseback riding as a little kid
and turning it into the focal point of my life.
From wanting to turn this hobby into a life long career.
I am from trying to ride the fluffy Golden Retriever
and riding a 1100 pound animal.
From baby pink boots and waking up before the sun to spend the day with the horse I love.