Compassion for the rider and the horse . . .

Leo and I in our early days of learning Dressage.

At the heart of my barn is empathy, for both the incredible animals who give us their all, and the people who love, care for, and learn from them. I remember feeling like a bit of an outsider at equestrian events, surrounded by gleaming warmbloods and riders who seemed to have it all together. Meanwhile, I was heading home to ride dressage on my trusty quarter horse. Nothing against my horse, Leo was a star in his own right, but let’s be honest, not all of us have the budget or the desire for a fancy warmblood.

I used to worry I didn’t quite fit in, but over time I realized that what matters most is the bond between horse and rider, not the breed or the price tag. I was lucky enough to find a trainer who believes in dressage as it’s meant to be—focused on partnership, kindness, and the joy of learning together. Whether you’re rescuing, riding, or just loving horses from afar, you belong in my space if you share these values. I celebrate every rider and every horse, because compassion is always in style.