By now you have probably read quite a few “2021 recaps.” It seems like everyone is posting them, and as I began to think, “What’s the big deal? I am so over this,” I realized how important and appealing it is to take the time to sit down and remember the year. One of the many things I love about keeping a horse blog, is that it helps me record and keep track of the major horse related events that happen throughout the year(s). Upon realizing how important it is to reminisce the year, I would like to share with you my recap of 2021.
2021 started off with a visit to the vet. A check-up and a teeth floating took place. I really enjoy taking my horses to the vet because 1) I enjoy knowing my equines are healthy (or if not knowing what is wrong so I can take the necessary steps) and 2) I get the opportunity to learn new things about horses!
Last January and February, the Ozark Hills were at times covered in snow. Missouri weather can be unpredictable, and snow doesn’t usually last that long. Last year we had several welcome snow days that although very chilly made for some excellent photos and prompted my blog post: 6 Tips on Riding Safely in the Snow.
In February, I unexpectedly said good bye to my beloved senior equine, Penny. A faithful equine for 10 years, this sorrel quarter horse taught me so much about patience and persistence. You can read more about her here.
In the beginning of summer, I received my every first fly masks from the Great British Equinery. Some of my equines wore a fly mask for the very first time. As a first time fly mask user, many questions concerning this new item entered my head. In this blog post, First time using a Fly Mask, I navigate through questions such as “Should I leave the mask on all day” and “How do I clean it?” Summer with my horses this past year was really fun! It included trail rides, horse popsicles, and a new herd member!
I took this pic the day we brought Coconut home! 
One of the best views!
In June, my sister Quinn and I welcomed our newest equine member, Coconut. It didn’t take long for this friendly, 14 hands high, Missouri Foxtrotter gelding to capture our hearts! He has been a wonderful addition to our herd, and a great horse for Quinn.
Throughout the course of the year, my sister and I worked hard to train my Haflinger team. Jasmine & Rosemary began this year having never pulled a buggy, and ended it with several wonderful carriage pulling experiences, including a Christmas Eve buggy ride! My sister and I continue to work with the halfies to give them all the practice driving they can get. We are so proud of our equine gals for all their hardwork this past year, they have come a long way!
Lastly, the Stables has been under construction, and then through the moving-in process this past year. I can’t wait to share with you guys the official tour of the new horse barn, an addition to the farm I have been especially thankful for this winter!
Over all, 2021 was a pleasant year to recap. It had it’s downs as every year does, but I learned & grew so much this past year not only in my equestrian abilities, but in my Christian faith. I would like to end this recap by giving glory to God who “make[s] all things new.” (Revelation 21:5)
*Comment below and tell me about your year, whether equestrian related or not I would love to hear about it! Or contact me via email here!
Tails & trails,
Reese
It’s great reading such a nice recap of the year! So many people are all doom and gloom about 2021 and reading your year summarized made me smile. Keep up the good work with your Halfies! Was so happy to get to share your blog with our readers this year too! <3 Happy New Year and here's hoping 2022 is even more awesome!
Thanks for this comment, it made me smile knowing that you enjoyed reading my post! Wishing you a horse-filled & awesome 2022 as well!
Wonderful to read your recap here. I reflected on the circle of life theme, with an old and cherished friend passing away and a new companion entering the picture (what a cutie by the way- I think you know I have a thing for gaited painted ponies!). And how much fun to follow your journey with your Halflingers too. Sounds like something that gives you lots of satisfaction and that your entire family (not to mention your family business) can enjoy!
I really enjoyed reading your 2021 recap! I left a comment about it earlier, but it seems to have disappeared into the internet, so I am trying to post it again . . . Anyways, while reading your post, I reflected on the circle of life with one special horse passing away and another new horse arriving. Coconut is such a cutie (I think you already know from my blog that I have a thing for gaited painted ponies!). And what fun you are having with the Halflingers. Wonderful that you can enjoy them with your entire family, not to mention incorporate them into your family business. I love your comment about giving glory to God for what you’ve learned this year, too. Fascinating how we can learn spiritual lessons through our relationships with God’s creatures, right? Looking forward to hearing about what you learn in 2022!
Thanks so much for the encouraging comment! God has really blessed me with wonderful horses who have taught me so many lessons. I am looking forward to reading about your own equine adventures in 2022!
Recapping the year is definitely a way to see progress. I love all the pictures you have taken to savor the memories with your horse family!
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