May is the Gateway to Summer
by Karen Pickering
I recently attended three expos and finalized the April issue of the Northwest Horse Source. As I write this, I’m bursting with new ideas. Horse events always get me charged up! There are so many great products to see, clinics to attend, and exciting ideas from the variety of horse people. Now it’s time to hit the trails, shows, and events to burn up those wintertime calories (for me and my horse.)
Three events and a magazine in one month has been exhilarating, but exhausting, so it’s the perfect time to think about recreational riding. My idea of relaxing is horse camping, or should I say glamping. I admit having a living-quarters trailer makes camping pretty easy, plus your home-on-wheels is stocked and ready to go. Just add groceries! I’m looking forward to having adventures this year and hope to see many of you at an event or on the trail.
I’m super excited about our new lifestyle section. Late last year I felt inspired to add this section and dive into what it means to live the equestrian life. I hope to bring more information on country cooking, poetry, clothing ideas, western décor, art, and more. I never grow tired thinking of ways to bring horses and the horse culture into daily life. I’m truly blessed to have a job that I love and excites me. While there will always be challenges, it keeps me passionate about life.
I hope to inspire, uplift and encourage my readers to dream big, take risks, and find the courage to do the things that make life worth living. I have many things on my bucket list and want to look back on my life with no regrets. I believe we all have a purpose, and part of life is discovering what we are meant to do. I find great satisfaction in helping others on their journey to live a fulfilled life.
I’m grateful for the many advertisers that have become good friends, and for the opportunity to serve this industry and the horses we love. Be sure and read about a new guest ranch on page 6. Montana Hill Guest Ranch in Bridge Lake, British Columbia is just what you’ve been looking for. These folks have over 20 years in the bed and breakfast industry. They’ve just moved to a beautiful new location. Get away and enjoy this beautiful ranch in the heart of British Columbia.
Quote: The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
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.
