July 4, 2025: Six Months In—Lessons from the Barn and Beyond

Jul 4

It’s hard to believe it’s been six months since 🐝Bee became mine. When I look back at all we’ve navigated together—hormones, hoof care, herd dynamics, and countless early mornings in the round pen, I’m struck not just by how much I’ve learned about horses, but how much I’ve learned about myself.

Here’s what Bee and barn life have taught me so far:

Don’t stand downwind from the poop rake.
It’s a simple truth, but a good reminder: sometimes life stinks. Know where to stand, when to keep your mouth shut or to speak out, when to pivot, and how to laugh through it.

There’s always something to fix.
On a horse property, and in life, maintenance is constant. Whether it’s a lost slipper or a bad habit, keep your tools (and your patience) close by.

Flies are relentless.
You can do everything right, and some annoyances still show up. Manage what you can, swat what you must, and stay moving.

You can do hard things.
Even when you think you can’t. Especially when you don’t want to. Bee has challenged me physically, emotionally, and mentally and I’m better for it (or at least I think I am).

Mucking stalls is good exercise.
It’s humbling. Grounding. Sweaty. And wildly effective at clearing your head. Can also be very fun in a group!

Rolls in a stall mean trust.
When Bee first rolled in her stall, I realized how far we’ve come. She’s comfortable. She’s safe. And that says everything about the bond we’ve built.

I’m not an easy keeper, but I’ve become easier.
Bee isn’t necessarily low maintenance, and neither am I. But we’ve found our rhythm. I’ve learned her patterns, and that’s made the work feel less like work.

Maple the barn cat is proof small moments matter.
Every time she meows at me or curls up nearby, I’m reminded that connection doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful.

Trust your gut.
From choosing supplements to deciding when to intervene with herd politics, instincts are there for a reason. I’ve learned to listen to mine.

You don’t always need a manual.
At first, I was Googling everything. Now, I know a lot of things. That confidence came from showing up, trying, and yes — sometimes failing.

Community counts.
I’ve needed every bit of my barn community, friend and family community, training community, and even my doctor community. Bee has had to navigate the same thing—finding her place in both the back herd and the front herd. The truth is, nobody does this alone, and I’m grateful for the people (and horses) who’ve helped us both feel at home.

🐝 Got your own “life lesson” from the barn or your own critter? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to include a few reader favorites in a future Buzz!

Barn Life Snapshots: Moments That Made Our Week

This week’s camera roll tells its own story full of charm, surprises, and everyday beauty at the barn.

One of the funniest moments? Two horses standing outside the port-a-potty like they were waiting in line. If you've ever wondered how long the wait is at a barn bathroom, just ask our four-legged comedians.

Every morning, Bee makes a stop outside Sinjari’s old stall. She stands there quietly, as if hoping her first barn friend might return. It’s a touching habit, a little nod to friendship and routine.

Mely, the curious mare next door, has been keeping tabs on us through the barn window. She’s nosy in the most endearing way, always peeking in with wide eyes and perky ears. Mely’s part of the front herd and spends her downtime at the fenceline chatting with her crew. But when breakfast and dinner roll around, she trots down our way to check in.

This week brought a small hoof drama. Bee’s “slipper” came off, and with it, a significant chunk of hoof stuck to the shoe. She’s walking sound, but we’ll be keeping an eye on it and the farrier, Shawn Kelley will be giving her some extra TLC.

In a sweet surprise, my lesson-mate Jennifer gifted me a custom keychain her dad made. He also hand stamped it to commemorate Bee’s purchase. It’s the kind of thoughtful gesture that makes our little community so special.

Also worth noting: The barn owners installed a hefty new tie at the wash rack, giving us a sturdier and safer spot for grooming and rinsing. SWOON!

These snapshots may seem simple, but they reflect the heart of barn life where humor, hope, care, and connection all show up in the smallest moments.

Thanks for following along on Bee’s journey and reading my banter! We love this hive of friends! See you next week for more adventures!