04/18/2024
Hello, Appalachian Trainer Face Off and Heart of Phoenix Equine Rescue community! I'm 47-year-old mother of two, grandmother of one, and a lifelong (3rd generation) horse owner. My journey with horses began with my amazing mother, who instilled in me a deep love and dedication to these magnificent animals, just as her parents did for her.
I started training horses at the age of 13, with my first horse being a 14.1 hand Missouri Fox Trotter that I showed in 4-H before passing her down to my little sister. This little mare was a cherished member of our family until she passed away from colic in her late teens.
My love for the Arabian breed blossomed after that, drawn to their sensitivity and intelligence. However, a severe horse accident in my early 30s challenged me greatly. I broke my leg in six places and shattered my hip, with doctors expressing doubts about my ability to walk again. Despite the odds, with the support of my family and my Arabian gelding, Skeeter, I not only walked again but also rode which played a significant role in my recovery, earning the admiration of my doctors.
Years later, I traveled to Texas to work with Clinton Anderson and learn his Method Program. I love continuing my education by learning from TristanTucker, Judy Goodnight and so many others. I also look forward to meeting the trainers at the competition and continuing to expand my knowledge and learn from them as well.
In 2018 I fulfilled my dream by opening a small horse boarding farm in Bloomingdale, Ohio, that I named (at my grandmother's suggestion) after the very first horse ever owned by our family "Sunshine". Here I have the privilege of caring for and working with these incredible animals every day. Now, I'm honored to be a part of the Heart of Phoenix Equine Rescue, helping these wonderful horses find their forever homes.
