Friends, Family and Horses Help Keep Us Healthy
by Karen Pickering
Wellness: The condition of good physical and mental health, especially when maintained by proper diet, exercise, and habits.
With my husband’s health challenges and my own battle to stay healthy to care for him, run the magazine and a small farm, I have become very aware of the value and meaning of wellness. Life has gone from doctor appointments, to emergency room visits, to therapy sessions while trying to squeeze in business and everything else. I’m on a treadmill that just doesn’t stop; insanity at its finest. Just when I’m at the point of sheer exhaustion and frustration, it seems someone or something comes through for us through a friendly face, a hug, or an unexpected gift. These things help to soothe the day-to-day challenges.
Recently, my good friend Allison suggested I come over and ride along with my editor, Catherine, and her good friend Constance. Allison let me ride her retired show horse, Playboy. Good friends, great horse and a relaxing evening away from the daily stress—what a treat. It was so therapeutic.
Last night I dropped in on the Trail Meister clinic at Fire Mountain Trail Course—one of my favorite destination points. Robert Eversole did a great clinic/demonstration on how to correctly put up a high line. Robert has become one of the leading authorities on horse camping and offers a helpful online resource for trail riding enthusiasts. As interesting and informative as it was, I simply enjoyed being around horse people and connecting with friends I haven’t seen all summer. It made me realize how much I miss these weekend outings and how important they are to my sanity and wellness.
Lastly, read this month’s story on page 6 about Kalypso Bay Farm, a classy facility in Deming, WA owned by Kate DeMarco. Her Gypsy Vanner breeding program has produced some of the finest horses in our region. Have an enjoyable fall; hope to see you on the trail.
Quote: What most people need to learn in life is how to love people and use things, instead of using people and loving things.
– Author Unknown
Published in October 2015 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.
