The gift giving season is upon us! If you have a beloved equestrian in your life, you are undoubtedly looking for an appropriate “horsey” expression of love. So…we thought we would give you some suggestions. There are of course hundreds of possibilities and just as many price ranges, but here is a starter list of some of our favorite items.

I decided to enter Herkúles in combined training and dressage at the next local schooling show. A perfect opportunity – no pressure. He was a star! Two blue ribbons in our eventing and dressage debut. A clean jumping round and a respectable score of 67.77% in our first dressage round. Yes, we started small, and yes, we have much to improve.

A bit of Icelandic culture will be on display in Truro, Iowa September 6-9! We’re thrilled to be hosting an Icelandic Horse Breeding Evaluation and Sport Show. This special breed is central to Iceland’s culture, and the Iowa events will reflect the traditional presentations of the island. Beautiful horses and exciting competition, all in a friendly and casual atmosphere.

She looked in Iceland, Colorado, Georgia and various other countries and states, keeping me posted on likely prospects, sending videos and describing their pros and cons as she felt it related to what I wanted. Within 4 months, she found a 15-yr old pinto mare, Flauta.

Once I rode Flauta, I knew she was for me.

Nothing compares to the joy of riding out in the open on a trustworthy mount. Whether it be a relaxed “hack” through the woods or an exhilarating gallop across the prairie, trail riding on a beautiful day is pure delight to any equestrian. The only hurdle: finding the perfect equine companion. Once again, the Icelandic saves the day!

So…..what did I learn in Iceland? I learned that there is no shame in struggling. I learned that it is a joy to be part of a community and have the opportunity to help my neighbors. I learned that to truly be in harmony with my horses, I must invite them into my community and attentively listen to the myriad spectrum of communications that they constantly offer.

There are so many things to worry about when the frigid days of an Iowa winter arrive; waterers and pipes freezing, vehicles not starting, sheets of ice on the ground making every step a perilous one. Such bitter cold is difficult for any creature, but the Icelandic horse is better equipped to cope than most.

Finding the right horse is always a difficult task. The difficulty in finding the right Icelandic Horse is compounded by the fact that there are so few in the United States. Add to that the frequency of "backyard breeding" and the lack of experienced trainers to advise and guide you and the task can become trying. It is an important decision that may affect your life for many years, so BE PATIENT! A mistake in purchase can be costly and difficult to remedy.