Bloghop: Favorites of 2018

Unlike all the other holidays, which stress me out, New Year's is probably my all time favorite. First of all, it signals the end of the other holidays. It's not so much that I believe that a new page on the calendar magically fixes or changes anything, but it's a good time to reflect on the past 365 days, whether it's to celebrate them or to dump them unceremoniously out on their behinds in the January cold. As a result, I'm probably going to do a whole slew of New Year themed posts, especially since January tends to be uneventful around here and there isn't much else to post about.


I'll start with the Favorites of 2018 bloghop, stolen from the $900 Facebook Pony. I'm going to make some effort at keeping this horse-related, but this was probably the least horsey year I've had to date. That's not saying  much since I still work with horses full time... but...

Favorite Show Picture

Kylie made me so proud at the Eastern States championships. I am planning to write a whole post about this!! Maybe. Some day. Photo by Stacy Lynne Photography, used with purchase.

Favorite Non-show Picture

Technically, this is a show photo, but I was just being a spectator, and it's my favorite horse photo of 2018, taken at Jersey Fresh.

Favorite thing you bought...

Ok, so I couldn't really keep this one horse-related. I didn't make too many horse purchases, and none of them were fun. These boots, though, were the best thing ever. They're holding up remarkably well and they've gotten some awesome miles on them this year. Plus, they really symbolize all the extra adventures Mike and I got to go on in 2018. With his new job and my lack of endurance riding, we got in more hiking in one year than we have in all our time together combined. Also, technically Mike bought these as a gift for me, but they still count.

Favorite Moment on Horseback

Despite the fact that I still have to fight with myself to get on and go fast outside, there is nothing that feels like galloping a racehorse. The day that I took Sam out and let him move was incredible. He gave me so much confidence and the grin on my face says it all. Photo by Christine Jordan.

Favorite Moment Out of the Saddle

Going on our first vacation! We packed a lot into a few short days, but it was awesome! We did all the touristy things and there wasn't a single horse! This super cheesy souvenir photo will make me happy forever.

Favorite "Between the Ears" Picture

Amira and her owner, Julie, were so important to me this year, giving me a break from life with no strings or pressure attached. And this section of trail, at Deer Path Park, was heavenly.

Favorite Horse Book or Article
The Truth in Boarding Barns popped up on my Facebook just as LRG was going through turmoil, and politely summed up my thoughts at the time. I've often been quoted as such: "This is why Dom doesn't have boarders any more." It's true. My honest feelings about ungrateful boarders are far less polite.

Favorite Horse Ridden (or Groomed/Cared For) Other Than Your Own

My dear, sweet Harold <3

Favorite Funny Picture of Your Horse

He's not my horse, but this photo of Desperado says everything about our relationship.

Favorite fence you jump or movement you conquered

Galloping on The Hill in company is pretty much the hardest thing I've ever done on horseback. 

Favorite Horse Meme or Funny Picture

Not specifically related to horses, but boy is it true in my business!!