Dreams are Free!
by Karen Pickering, NWHS Publisher

Our March Barn and Farm issue is one of my favorites of the year. Spring is starting to unfold and more daylight brightens the spirits. Let the dreaming begin! I have lived in the same home for more than 30 years and have been dreaming of a new home for some time now. While I am eternally grateful for what I have, the thought of a change in location or building something new is often on my mind.
I have always wanted an apartment barn. I dream of running down to check on my horses in slippers. It makes sense financially to have it all under one roof and be so close to my animals. How many of you enjoy an apartment barn? I’d love to hear your experience and have you share with our readers all the benefits (even the downsides) of living in this type of structure.
A western themed interior with wood floors, a fireplace, and a deck would be a must. I would love to share my experience with readers and most of all have a place to invite friends and relatives to enjoy the experience and sense of community. I have worked from a home office for many years and believe that environment is important to success. Having the ability to take a break and go mess with the horses has been a lifesaver at times.
We have some great opportunities coming up to learn about training, horse care, farm management and more! Here’s a lineup of some fun events in March:
– Washington State Horse Expo, March 2-4; The Northwest Horse Source will be at Booth 202.
– Back Country Horsemen Rendezvous March 16-18
– Northwest Horse Fair & Expo, March 23-25 (see story on page 6); The Northwest Horse Source will be there with horse care products and books to give away so be sure to stop by our booth and sign up to win!
Enjoy the lineup of articles this month. Many of us care for our horses on our own property, and the Horse Source wants to help make that easier and better. We are sharing information on a farm makeover contest sponsored by the Whatcom Conservation District. Taking care of our property and environment is incredibly important. You’ll want to read more about how to enter and learn about the positive things WCD is doing for property owners.
Have a great month! I look forward to seeing you at one of the fun events in March!
Warmly,
Karen
Quote: “Truly appreciate those around you, and you’ll soon find many others around you. Truly appreciate life, and you’ll find that you have more of it.”~ Ralph Marston – Writer and Publisher
Originally Published March 2018 Issue

Owner / Publisher | Canfield Certified Trainer
Karen Pickering is a lifelong horsewoman and the founder of The Northwest Horse Source, which began in 1995 as a small equine newsletter and grew into a respected industry publication. With more than 30 years of experience serving the horse community, Karen now focuses on helping equine businesses and organizations build visibility, credibility, and lasting relationships through online marketing, digital promotion, and educational platforms.
As a Canfield Certified Trainer, she blends proven success principles with real-world industry experience, supporting both businesses and individuals navigating change in today’s digital landscape. Karen remains deeply connected to the horse industry and is passionate about serving the community she has helped build for over three decades.




