StoneGait Manor Paso Finos

09/23/2026

A day late posting, dang it

09/11/2026

September 11th is a complicated day in our family.

Twenty-five years ago today, my firstborn daughter turned 12 years old. We wished her a very happy birthday as we shuttled her off to school. She was born in 1989, long before anyone could have imagined that her birthday would forever share a place in history with one of the darkest days our country has known. As her mother, that has meant learning how to hold two very different things at the same time. There is the joy of celebrating the life of my daughter, and there is the sadness of remembering the lives that were lost, the families forever changed, the first responders and ordinary people who stepped forward, and a country that would never be the same again.

I have never wanted one to overshadow the other. I celebrate her. I remember them. I make room for both.

For several years now, my daughter has chosen to honor September 11 in her own way. She paints and decorates her Arabian mare, Marti, and brings her to the Carbon County Courthouse memorial. It has become part of how she remembers and pays tribute. This year, because of a conflicting work schedule, I have the honor of taking Marti in her place.

And perhaps that feels especially fitting this year.

Twenty-five years later, I find myself thinking not only about what happened that day, but about who we were in the days that followed. We saw people helping people they had never met. We saw ordinary people become heroes. We saw communities come together, strangers stand shoulder to shoulder, and a country remember what it meant to be Americans before everything became so divided into sides.

There was a sense of togetherness, of pride, of looking out for one another. Not because we all thought alike, believed alike, or came from the same place, but because in that moment we understood that we belonged to something bigger than ourselves. I fear we have allowed too much of that to slip away.

Remembering September 11 isn't only about remembering what we lost. It is also about remembering what we found in one another afterward—and choosing not to lose that part of ourselves.

So today, I begin by celebrating my daughter.
I will also stand with Marti and remember those who lost their lives, those who ran toward danger while others ran away, the families who lost someone, and everyone whose life was forever altered by September 11.

There is room for both.

Happy birthday to my firstborn, who has spent 25 years sharing her day with history and has found her own beautiful way to honor it.

We Remember. We Never forget.

08/07/2026

Today, August 7th, we observe National Purple Heart Day, a very significant occasion that commemorates the establishment of the Purple Heart medal.
It's a time to honor the bravery and sacrifice of those wounded or killed in action, remembering their commitment to duty and the incredible trust they placed in their team. My thoughts drift to the immense courage shown by these service members, and I find myself wondering about the training and experiences that forged such resilience and the immense character each soldier displayed under extreme circumstances. This day also brings to mind my own 'herd' and the importance of supporting each other through challenges.
It's a reminder of the profound impact a single person can have, representing a lineage of honor and courage.

07/04/2026

Today, as we celebrate America's 250th birthday, I've been reflecting on just how fortunate we are to live in a country where we have the freedom to dream, to grow, and to choose a path that fills our hearts.

I wasn't always a horse girl. In fact, I didn't discover that passion until later in life. Twenty-six years ago, Paso Finos entered my world, and they've shaped who I am in ways I never could have imagined. They have brought me friendships, challenges, lessons, purpose, and countless unforgettable memories.

The opportunity to follow that dream—to build a life around these incredible horses—is something I never take for granted. The freedoms and liberties we enjoy have allowed so many of us to pursue the lives we choose, whether that's through horses, family, service, or any other passion that calls to us.

Today I celebrate not only our nation's 250 years, but also the freedom to become the person I was meant to be.

Happy Independence Day, America. 🇺🇸

04/05/2026

03/30/2026

Big milestone for Sol today — first big walk off the property. We spent an hour out exploring and logged a little over 4,300 steps together.

Lots of new sights, new smells, and time to just slow down and let him take in the world. Moments like this are a good reminder that it’s not always about riding. Sometimes the best progress happens in the quiet moments, giving a young horse time to think, settle, and grow in confidence one step at a time.

These are the days that make me proud to be part of his journey.

03/23/2026

Father and son sharing a moment and a bucket!

03/18/2026

I believe Sol has gone through a little growth spurt.

03/15/2026

Took a little break from technology and spent time with people I absolutely adore. It was good for the soul.

Meanwhile, Wyoming has been doing what Wyoming does best… WIND. It’s been relentless all winter — blowing over semis, campers, and even buildings. The last few weeks have been especially wild.

But this morning the wind finally rested. Instead, we woke up to snow and single digits. ❄️

Poor Viajero’s blanket was completely askew this morning… but he was dry underneath, so I guess that’s a win. Horses always keep life interesting.

02/14/2026

Happy Valentine's Day! May your day be filled with joy and love.