Being an adult sucks.... until it all pays off

Instead of sleeping in until 10 and then getting some Waffle House.. I have finished riding 4 horses.
Instead of hitting the bars.. I am driving through the night to teach or get back to my horses in Florida.
Instead of spending that extra $50 on shots at the club, I have an insurance bill to pay.
Heels? Like, High Heels? What Are Those?
Instead of celebrating with friends after a horse show, I am drinking a bottle of wine and doing my taxes.
The clock just hit 9:30... time to go to bed while the rest of the world goes out.

Yes. I am an Adult. I am boring and old. I am walking the straight and narrow. Things are different when you set a goal and will stop at nothing to achieve it. I've had to make some huge sacrifices along the way. The day I actually take the time to brush my hair is a big deal. I now consider going to Pepe's a luxurious occasion. I have less friends, less time, less money, less everything.

Even with all that I am missing, my life has been changed forever. Kentucky or not, I have learned the dedication and drive it takes to be successful at this level. There is no room for error. Your uninterrupted focus is paramount. There are now so many things I can't do. But look at my return... I am entered in one of the few CCI4* events in the WORLD. I have reached the upper echelon. I may not be ultra competitive.. yet.. but I am here. I have arrived. I know now what it takes and hope to continue to do this time and time again.

I had a wonderful weekend coaching my girls in Maryland. Everyone had a great weekend and I am beyond proud. The fact that they did so well despite me not being around all winter shows their true grit and determination. They are also learning what it takes.

Tomorrow morning I head off to the Fork for Donald's last run before the Big Dance. I am choking up as I type this. Part nervous but mostly excited. I am just hoping those 7 or 8 minutes on Saturday go smoothly so I can get to the main event. I have worked so hard, and Donald has too. He has been absolutely wonderful this spring and deserves to have a shot at the best track in the country. He has equaled me in my efforts. It's like he also knows what is at stake.

Hewie is at home in Florida being kept in work by Casey. She is a godsend and what an amazing person. To keep going and helping the rest of us out even after her own horses' freak (but minor) injury.. true class. I know I will come back to Hewie in better shape than when I left him and I have no reservations about his CCI2* in 2 weeks. He is in the best hands.

It will be a whirlwind next 3 weeks. There is no rest for the weary.. just keep pushing.

xoxox

Katie, Donald and Hewie