2 years ago, I discovered a new passion in my life – horses! I heard about a horse rescue who needed volunteers, and experience wasn’t required! So I went for a tour, and fell head over heels with the horses! I spent so much not only volunteering, but learning anything and everything I could, from reading books, watching videos, and going to clinics. In my second year, I had the opportunity to shareboard (partially care for) a beautiful thoroughbred named Duchess. I adored her. During that time I was also fortunate to receive groundwork lessons from student families with horses, as I do not ride due to neck issues. By January of 2024 I also was volunteering with HorsePower Therapeutic Riding in St Charles. Early on, I connected with a mini named Misty, and her owner invited me to shareboard her that March, which I happily accepted. Around that time, I stopped with the first rescue, and focused my time more on HorsePower and Misty. Sadly, my time with Duchess ended in the spring due to family changes with her owners, but luck was on my side because 2 months later, I found myself being asked by a new friend to shareboard her quarterhorse, Cajee, who lives at Hawks Landing in Hampshire. On our first meetup, I fell instantly in love, and I treasure my time with him. Just recently, I found my way back to another rescue, a new one called New Life Equine. I am thrilled to be part of this new organization, and help these horses. In addition to volunteering my time at the barn, I will be helping with social media and fundraising efforts. It is definitely a new “happy place” for me.