… and yet she continues to smile on the outside.

This is a guest post from my sister Jennifer. I’m reposting it from Facebook because it deserves to be. This is more than a “cute or poignant moment” – this speaks to her entire life loving horses and helping others discover the joys of riding. She is one of the strongest people I know!

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Thirty (30!) years ago, I chose to start my horse riding business. I chose to work hard, very hard, mentally and physically. I chose a career where the riches are measured in the experiences of others, the fresh outdoors, the rewards of horse ownership.

Every single dollar made and spent was worked for. I did this all on my own without regular financial support from family or a spouse: no health benefits, no 401k, nothing but the dollars earned by love and sweat and all of my time.

Sick horse(s)? I’m on call and night watch. Short on staff? I’m to cover. Need feed? I’m the gofer. Round bales need to go to pasture? I’m the tractor driver. Fences to build or repair? I’m on it… all this in between my office duties.

(THANK YOU, Trasa, for being my guardian angel and weekend office warrior!)

My adult life has been about others. Giving all that I can for the good of others. An unselfish lifestyle. I was wonderfully raised to become this way.

This year has been challenging, to say the least. Business is booming! People are discovering riding as an outdoor activity! (imagine that)… My horses are working double time. I’m working all the time. …

A “good problem to have, right?” I hear it, a lot.

If I were renting bicycles, yes.

If my senior herd of horses were younger, yes.

If I were 30 years younger, yes.

But I’m doing my best to care for my horses and take care of my guests.

After 30 years of giving up my time and life for others, carrying this beloved business on my shoulders, I am finally admitting this one thing: My horses are tired. I am tired.

And we’re allowed to be!

I’m strong, but I’m exhausted.