Create Memories by Having Fun!
by Karen Pickering
The best part of my job is experiencing new clinics, activities and products for the magazine. My Quarter Horse April and I venture across the northwest for different events and get to enjoy the great northwest. Trail riding and camping is probably my favorite thing to do, but I love clinics, too. Learning is something that continues throughout our lifetime; it helps us enjoy our horses more and create that special bond that can last a lifetime.

April has been in training her entire life and so have I. Each new experience is training. Just when you figure you’ve done it all something new can surprise you. While trail riding in Leavenworth Chase, one of the Faith Equestrian trainers, was tossing a rope off his horse and April did not care for that at all. Her fear surprised me, but she’d never seen a rope that close, nor has she seen it from her back. Training is an ongoing process.
Our cover story this month is about the second annual Lynden Horse Expo. This event has really taken off under the direction of Maryjo Turnbull and we welcome back Craig Cameron and his Extreme Cowboy Race as well as Raye Lochert (featured on the cover). There are several new clinicians this year too so be sure and visit the expo website for details. http://nwwafair.com/p/Events/305. Mark your calendars for October 4-6, 2013; there are many opportunities to learn.
Finally, we are working hard at creating a community that starts in print and continues online. Each issue has articles that reflect the trainers from our northwest region and includes an expanded digital edition each month. We have a great archive of past issues so if you miss one simply visit our website at www.nwhorsesource.com. There are more resources such as “Ask the Expert” a business directory, events calendar and our blog: www.nwhorsesource.com/blog. Please become a part of our community; we have many ways for you to contribute, and benefit. Have a great September and remember to ride….more!
Quote: Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”
Joshua J. Marine
Published September 2013 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.






