Counting the Blessings from 2014
by Karen Pickering, NWHS Publisher
I can’t remember a more interesting year. I’ve spent nearly every weekend on my horse doing some activity, from trail riding to sorting cattle. I’ve paid the price by falling behind with magazine projects and upkeep on the home front, but was it worth it? Absolutely!
Highlights from this summer include horse camping in Leavenworth and winning my first buckle (ever) at Fire Mountain Trail Course in Sedro Woolley, WA. Top this off with a horseback trip through Yellowstone and it just doesn’t get any better. After all the years of working round the clock it was nice to catch my breath, regenerate and recharge. I’m so thankful for the people and horses in my life.
I’m looking forward to sharing the senior horse essay contest winners with you in this issue. We appreciate everyone who submitted stories for the contest. It’s encouraging to read about the special horses that have shaped our lives. I’m so glad that many of our senior partners can live out their lives being loved and well cared for. My mare, April, will soon be a senior horse. She’s 15 now, but it’s just around the corner. I have another mare that was my reining horse for several years as well as a trail companion. At 29, Dawn is retired.
I took thousands of pictures this summer at most of the events I attended. Be sure and check out our photography site at www.nwhsphoto.smugmug.com/Equestrian-Events. We may have captured your image! There are many new and exciting things coming up with the Northwest Horse Source starting with our first ever special edition—an online digital gift guide. It’s now viewable on your smart phone or tablet so check it out. You can also access it on our website, in our reader newsletter and on Facebook.
Most of all, I wish you all a blessed Christmas. May the warmth of the season bring you joy as we celebrate through the holidays. Remember to enjoy your equestrian lifestyle. Life is short and it goes by fast; make every day count!
Quote: “Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” – George Bernard Shaw
Originally Published December 2014 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.
