Your Turn: Afraid of a Horsey Dream

You’ve wanted a horse all your life and now, finally, you’re in a position to buy one. So why the cold feet? Lindsay Rausch shares her story.

From Lindsay:

My horse dream story does not differ that much from many other horse people. My mom introduced me to horses and taught me the basics while she was able to. Having my own horse or one that she could regularly teach me on was not in the cards after the mare that my grandparents were going to give me was killed in a freak accident. Instead she taught me all she could without a horse in hand. Today I am 20 years away from that little girl learning to ride and on the cusp of having my own horse. I expected to be excited and giddy when this time came but I am finding that I am nervous…

• Can I really take care of a horse?

• Am I supposed to have a horse?

• Will I be able to take care of a horse?

• What if I get a horse and realize that I hate having one?

• Etc…

Some people will say that the fact that I am asking these questions means that I am ready, but I fear these unknowns as I move closer and closer to joining the club of horse owners. This past week I have twice gone on test rides on a horse that I feel matched to (see photo above).

The first ride felt like we were a match, but I was not giddy and grinning ear-to-ear as I rode around the arena because I was so focused on talking to this mare and thinking through lists I’ve read about how to know if the ride is going well. The second ride was all about me — I needed to know that what I felt was a real match and not excitement.

I am still sitting here wanting to know if my feet are on the ground and this is reality and not a nod into dreamland.

Has anyone else had this experience? If so, share your thoughts in the comments section below!

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