I have been thinking about getting a job. Not anytime soon, but when Rachel goes to school. It’s not that we NEED me to work or that I would HAVE to work, I just don’t know what I will do with myself once my baby isn’t here at home. There are so many things to consider. Of course I still have two more years to decide, it’s just one of those thoughts that pop up every once and a while.

Yesterday we went to do some shopping. Did anyone ever notice just how many DIFFERENT cowboy hats there are? It was not an easy choice to make, but we found one. Cassidy went with lovely pink hat, so light in color it’s more of a blush and found the perfect shirt to match. Jacob went with a dark blue hat and we found one for Rachel that almost matches Cassidy’s. I even gave in and got one, in brown with a small pink rope. We are going to be a sharp looking family at the next show!

Since Cassidy doesn’t have lessons this weekend we are going to try to relax. We have already taken care of the horses this morning as well as the dog and a stray cat that has shown up. Later we are going into town to do some grocery shopping and try to find Cassidy a new shirt for her next show. (Maybe even a new hat.) Then who knows, something fun I am sure. Jacob and Rachel are very happy to have a day with their older sister. I think she has missed her time with them as well.

I am so very happy right now! Cassidy is walking on cloud 9. The doctor confirmed that Cassidy’s condition has improved. He made sure we understood that she will always have to use one or both crutches, but she will never be free of them. It seems that between the skiing and horseback riding, Cassidy’s muscles have strengthened more than we would have ever expected. It’s almost as if she has been working out with weights. Just knowing how much this has improved her self esteem and now her physical abilities have also improved. I am the happiest mom in the world right now.

I have the most amazing news! Cassidy is able to walk more independently! She came home today and said watch this, and then she walked using only one crutch! I am floored! I am taking her in tomorrow to see the doctor. I have heard from many people about the therapeutic benefits from horseback riding, but I never expected something like this. I will keep you posted on what the doctor says! WOW!

Cassidy won her first blue ribbon today! We are all so proud of her! I think she outshone the sun for the last two hours. She and Jacob fell asleep on the way home. I am having a hard time keeping my eyes open. I am going to hit the hay.

I have decided that packing for a day trip is much more difficult than packing for a week long adventure. I have been running around like a chicken with its head cut off all morning. The horse has more brushes than Cassidy and more lotions than me. It’s going to be a very long, busy day.

Sometimes I forget how hard it can be to get back into a “normal” routine. It’s been rush here and rush there all week long! Cassidy has a show tomorrow and I am even more busy than usual. I need to make sure her outfit is clean and pressed, the tack is shining and that we don’t forget any of the “millions” of things the horse will need. I feel like I had another baby! Guess I better get busy.

Tomorrow is back to the everyday around here. Spring Break was so enjoyable, I am ready for school to be out. I love having my children home. Cassidy gets started on the second part of her lessons tomorrow and has a show next weekend. Which reminds me, I have those tips I am going to share. Not today though, today we are all going riding and just enjoy the day.

I can’t believe I have never mentioned this before! Toilet Paper is a must to keep in your vehicle, especially when traveling. I don’t think I can count how many times we have stopped for potty breaks and found no T.P. in the stalls. I know you have been there. LOL I buy the single rolls whenever they are on sale so that I can always have one in the car. It can be a butt saver!

I know in previous posts I have given some tips on packing for your trip. Today I want to give you some tips on your return trip.

1. Pack all your new purchases separately, this makes it much easier to keep up with.

2. Pack clothes first, then shoes, then things like hair dryers and brushes.

3. On your way out the door go room to rom. Look under beds in drawers and check any closet areas.

Hope these quick tips are helpful!

I did not realize how very much everyone needed a vacation. Cassidy has once again transformed into my “sweet” teenager, Jacob and Matthew are acting like they are both three years old and Rachel is enjoying everything. I am feeling like I have a brain that really works again! Is it p[ossible to just stay here and never go home?

We are out the door to the beach, a complete two days later than planned. I never though arrangements for Cassidy’s horse would be so complicated. The other horses are easy, just feed water and put in the barn at night. (The brushing can wait til we get back.) A show horse on the other hand needs boarding and much more care. If a stranger looked at Cassidy right now, they would swear she was leaving her best friend for much more than five days. Once we get on the road I think she will feel better. Jacob is thrilled and has not left Matthew alone since he got here Sunday. I have a wonderful entry for tomorrow, full of tips! Off to the beach I go!