Big Changes Ahead


I have a pretty huge announcement to make... Dino and I are moving!

It's come time for us to leave our current barn, and I was blessed with the incredible opportunity to board at a place that is a literal TWO MINUTE drive from where I live. Honestly, I could walk there if I wanted. The owner of the farm foxhunts and events, and is also a student of my trainer. The move is going to have huge benefits for Dino, including but not limited to:
  • Free access to his stall, pasture, and well-maintained dry lot at all times
  • Beautiful grass hay fed free-choice all day long
  • Another PONY and two MINI-DONKS for friends!
  • LOADS of space for trail riding and hacking that we can access right from the property
  • A grass riding arena with a set of lovely jumps and a dressage court, separated by a hill that will do amazing things for Dino's weak stifles
For me, being at the new barn will give me the opportunity to foxhunt(!), to ride my pony in the middle of the day or in the morning if I want, to know that he is being watched over like a hawk at all times, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing all his needs are being taken care of without me having to work my butt off on a daily basis. I'll be gaining a trail riding buddy and eventing partner, and look forward to learning from the barn owner's years of experience in horsekeeping, riding, showing, and hunting. I also will not be working off any of my board, so the hours saved by not having to work or drive many miles to the barn and back each day will allow me to pursue other business opportunities and spend more time with my husband. 

No barn is perfect, however, and the one sticking point with this place is that there isn't a riding arena with footing - just grass. So when things are wet or frozen, we can't do ring work. However, the barn owner also trailers over to our trainer's indoor at least once a week, and has contacts at several other area barns with indoor arenas. Having access to the surrounding farms and land also means that when the grass arena at home isn't useable, I can ride out and keep my pony fit that way. Dino also VASTLY prefers getting out and about to working in the ring, and I know it's the right move for him. It will keep him happier in mind and soul to work 'outside' more often.

I gave my notice to my current barn, and we'll be making the change mid-April. I'm excited and nervous all at once... change is hard!

Comments

  1. Wow! Sounds like an amazing place to board! I used to keep Pig 1.5 miles from my apartment (where I also worked in the leasing office). I would run to the barn over lunch breaks to check up on him and ride sometimes. It was awesome having him so close, and did amazing things for us building a relationship. I miss that so much! I wouldn't worry about using a grass ring. You have an eventing pony, after all. Just think that you're practicing for Badminton's grass dressage rings! ;)

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  2. BEST decision :) Lots of luck at the new place, I'm excited for you!

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  3. wow super exciting!!! the new place sounds really idyllic - even without the arena. plus, like Austen says - eventers have to ride on grass all the time. in my area for instance many events hold all three phases on grass!

    and i'm super excited to live vicariously through your fox hunting adventures haha

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  4. So exciting!! I can't wait to read all about what you guys get up to now!

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  5. Ahhhh! So exciting!! That's awesome to have found a good place to close to you. I can tell you from experience, it's a pain to only have grass to ride on...but you get used to it, hopefully it's a little uphill so it drains okay?

    Good luck with the move!!

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  6. Sounds like a great opportunity. I gave up the barn job last fall and moved Courage closer to me and my husband LOVES it. We have more time together and I have more energy. I just have to be conscious not to fill that time up with other things. ;-)

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  7. New place sounds like a really great fit! I love hills for working pony booties!

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  8. Sounds like you've weighed all the pros and cons and are making the best choice for Dino! I can't wait to see pics of the new place and read all about your adventures :D

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  9. Congratulations on your move! Sounds like a great situation for you both. Bets wishes on your new barn.

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  10. Lots of great perks! What I wouldn't give for my barn to be 2 minutes away!!!

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  11. Congrats! Sounds like an excellent (and very exciting) move!

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  12. Sounds like a great place to move to!

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  13. Thanks everyone! I'm nervous about moving but I think it's the best choice for us. :)

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  14. Sounds absolutely wonderful! There is nothing more comforting than knowing your pony is very well taken care of :).

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  15. That sounds awesome! What an incredible opportunity

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  16. That does sound amazing! I'm so happy for you to have this opportunity

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  17. How exciting! Congratulations! As someone who recently ditched barn chores, it has been very freeing. No more "I'm too tired from taking care of my horse to ride him." Enjoy!

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  18. MINI DONKS! This would have sealed the deal for me all on its own.

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  19. So exciting! After working off board forever and ever, I can vouch for the awesomeness that is showing up at the barn with absolutely nothing to due but dote and love on your pony. :) Although I am slightly jealous you'll be so close to your barn!

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  20. er, nothing to DO....not due....I haven't had my morning coffee yet.

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