I knew when this year started that it wasn't going to be normal. I was going to try to make the jump (ha...) to second level with Courage and I knew showing wasn't going to be a big part of that. We were exploring new horizons and instead of creating a show fund, I tapped one of my favorite local photographers and started setting up a really cool photo shoot.
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As anyone who's read this blog knows, this year didn't go down the way I expected. Instead of working towards bigger and better things, I dumped money into vets and treatments and ultimately concluded that Courage would be better suited by a different career.
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It took what seemed like years at the time, but the little man found his perfect upgrade home and Ms. Zoebird found me.
I wish the next part of this story was like, "and the birds were singing and everything was beautiful", but the truth is that Zoe has been a very bright spot in an otherwise very challenging year.
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I've been running myself ragged with no energy left for creativity and adventures.
But the great thing about horses like Zoe and friends like
Alyssa is that they're ready when you need them.
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And when I said, "let's do this thing", they made it happen.
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While things aren't all coming up roses, I think we're finally on the upswing.
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Through it all, I've been so lucky to be surrounded by absolutely the best people (and creatures) that anyone could ask for.
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I know I'm going to be a stronger, better version of myself because of that.
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I'm not quite sure where everything is going to shake out.
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I have no idea what next year will bring me, but I know that with all the challenges of this year, I still came through with a Zoebird.
And sometimes, a Zoebird is exactly what I needed the most.
[All stunning photographs and edits by the inestimable
Alyssa. She has limited availability for local photography jobs. Contact her for details.]
LOVE THIS.
ReplyDeleteNice bridle 😋 I'm so glad that things are on the upswing for you now. 2018 is gonna be a banner year for you!
I should have given you a bridle shoutout.
DeleteI freaking love your costume. Very very well executed.
ReplyDeleteThank you! Can't wait to see what you ladies came up with. :D
DeleteI LOVE IT. SO MUCH. YOU BADASS PRINCESS, YOU. <3 <3
ReplyDeleteBadass princess = best princess
DeleteYou guys are stunning! I can't get over how amazing these came out.
ReplyDeleteThey are so much more than I expected. <3
Delete<3 What a fun photoshoot!! The pics came out awesome
ReplyDeleteSo much fun! 10/10 recommend, tho maybe less the random dog getting loose and coming after us.
DeleteIt's not what happens, it's how you handle it. You're gold darling
ReplyDelete<3 Thank you.
DeleteYou look amazing! Alyssa is amazing! The photos are amazing!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteI kept waiting for things to turn around this year, and really they did when she came smooshing into your life. Even though it's been rough, it's so nice to see you smile so much at the barn again. And now I'm extra glad we waited to take these awesome pictures.
ReplyDeleteLIKE/THUMBS UP
DeleteLIKE/THUMBS UP
DeleteSo nice she liked it twice. <3
DeleteSeriously, you two rock my world. Thank you.
Beef jerky, pie, fruit leathers and tack stores. And we go see Bacon's brother. And free airfare.
ReplyDeleteWhat a perfect pair. It always seems to get worse before it gets better and I'm so impressed by the choices you've made and that steps you're taking. ♡
ReplyDeleteThank you. It's been rough, but it's going to get better. <3
DeleteAmazing photos! What a cool photoshoot! And so much happy
ReplyDeleteI had a little grain of an idea and Alyssa made it so much more than I was hoping for. <3
DeleteThose photos belong in a magazine!
ReplyDeleteThe magazine for people with too much time on their hands, I imagine. ;-)
DeleteThese are probably my favorite photos of all time!!
ReplyDeleteMINE TOO LETS BE FRIENDS
Deletehahaha
These pictures are AMAZING!!! I've been really wanting to get a photographer to get some really nice pictures, more casual not just riding dressage, of me and Katai but I just haven't done it yet. These have added it back to my list even if I'm not going to get anything nearly as cool as yours.
ReplyDeleteYeah. Having nice pictures is one think I never regret. Definitely recommend.
DeleteThese pictures are SO COOL!
ReplyDeleteEeeek right?!
DeleteYou have to return her in the same or better shape tho.
ReplyDeleteSchweeet pics! <3
ReplyDeletelove the pictures ;) and here's to making it through a year of challenges with the brightest of bright spots!
ReplyDeleteShe brings an amazing energy that I really needed in my life.
DeleteThese photos are amazing!! Where is this???
ReplyDeleteCelebration Park, out in Marsing.
DeleteSteam Punk - what wonderful shots!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteI love this! What a fun idea, and you both look AMAZING!
ReplyDeleteWe had so much fun!
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