As I near college graduation and the “real world,” I have found myself reflecting on all the great times I’ve shared with my mom. The greatest times always include our shared bond over horses. I credit my lifelong passion for horses to my mom and without her, I would have never been introduced to the animal and sport that I adore so much.

My mom has always enjoyed the simple pleasures of horses and trail riding, however upon my middle school years, she put it all on hold to be a full time show mom. For a long time she sacrificed so much for me to do what I loved. I cannot thank her enough and as an adult now, it is important to me to make sure she truly understands how much I appreciate all that she did.

Mom, thank you so much…

…for your time.

For the hundreds of hours of your time driving me to lessons, clinics and shows and waiting the entire time until they were over. For the late nights and early mornings bathing, braiding and clipping. For the excruciatingly hot Florida days spent in the sun watching me show and tend to my every need.

…for your selflessness.

For saying “yes” when I asked you to take me to yet another show. For getting dirty after using your own shirt to shine my boots; making sure I was polished before going into a class. For making sure I had enough to drink and eat before you took a quick five minute break. Most of all, for putting your love for trail riding on hold to give me the ability to ride and show our horse for all those years.

…for teaching me.

Horsemanship and sportsmanship skills. How to put my love for horses before my love for winning. To accept losing and use it as a learning opportunity. How to be patient because we all know patience is necessary when dealing with horses. How to take responsibly for my horse and myself. Most importantly, teaching me how to love unconditionally and to be thankful for everything.

…for your unwavering support and love.

During the times I needed it most. During the times I needed you to dry my tears after not placing in a class. During the times when I was stubborn and hard to work with. During the great times when our hard work paid off and I claimed my first grand champion trophy. During the entire time - through thick and thin.

To my groom, driver, horse holder, trainer, best friend and above all, fabulous mother. Thank you for all the little and big things alike and for sharing your love for horses. My sincerest gratitude to the best show mom I could have ever asked for.