We knew that this would be the summer that Maddie had her first horse lesson.  We seized the opportunity because we’ve been able to spend a big chunk of our summer in Oregon.  I knew that Maddie was ready for this because I knew that she understood that it was WORK and JOY to take care of a horse… not just the joy part!  She eagerly got my old saddles out, got the saddle soap out, got the saddle oil out and cleaned for a very long time!  This was after taking a “field trip” to our local tack and supply store which lasted well over two hours.  Note:  we only bought saddle soap!

After researching for a long time while sitting on my couch in Shanghai, we decides to go with Champion Training Center.  Everything out their website made me feel like it was “home” if that makes any sense.  When we go out to the barn for the first time, it was exactly as I would have liked it complete with barn cats, old leather smells, fresh sawdust… it was the kind of place I could spend all day long and never get bored.  What was wonderful about it was that Maddie could have spend all day there.  I’m pretty sure that if we asked her to clean out every single stall at the barn, she would have done so!

Kandice was PERFECT with Maddie.  She was patient and smart and Maddie trusted her immediately.  I saw Maddie’s confidence soar which I love of course!  We took video for a long time and I was able to get it down to just a few minutes so take a peek!

I’m sure this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship with the horse community for Maddie Anna even if we do live overseas.  Horses and horse people have a lot to teach…. I’m thankful that Maddie is falling in love!

Today I woke up sick.  My mom gave me some clothes from Justice and made me feel better.  my mom gave me tylenol and I felt a little bit better.

when I coughed so loudly it hurt my Mom’s ears!