Strong in the Saddle

I’ve had horses since I was a young girl. And somehow… I still feel like an imposter in the horse world. I wasn’t born into a horse family. I was born on a cattle ranch, but we didn’t use horses for our ranch work. My first pony was the first horse to step foot on our ranch. .Everything I know, I’ve pieced together over years — lessons here, books there, mistakes everywhere.And even now — after decades with horses — when I post a video online, I still catch myself thinking… who am I to be sharing this? If you’ve ever felt like an outsider in the horse world — this video is for you..KL

🐎 Starting a Full Groundwork Program with My Horse | Diesel’s 2026 Training Plan.In this video, I’m introducing the groundwork program I’ll be working through with my horse, Diesel, as part of our training focus moving into 2026. Groundwork has always been a cornerstone of my horsemanship, and this year I’m committing to going through a structured, progressive program from start to finish..I’ll be using Clinton Anderson’s groundwork program as my primary framework — working through the Fundamentals, Intermediate, and Advanced levels — while also sharing how I plan to adapt the program to Diesel as an individual horse and sprinkle in additional exercises where appropriate..I also talk openly about Diesel’s shivers diagnosis, what that means for his training, and how I’m approaching this program with his long-term soundness, mental state, and physical health in mind. At this point, shivers is not limiting his ability to perform, but it is something I’ll be monitoring closely as we move forward..I’ll be documenting this process honestly — the progress, the challenges, and what I learn along the way — so if you’re interested in realistic horsemanship, groundwork done with intention, and life with horses in Alberta, you’re in the right place..KL

🐎 What to Do With Your Horse in the Winter (No Indoor Arena, Cold Weather Reality).Winter with horses can feel frustrating — especially if you don’t have access to an indoor arena, the footing is frozen, and the days are short. In this video, I’m sharing what I actually do with my horses during the winter months here in Alberta, where riding simply isn’t always an option..This isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing what’s safe, realistic, and beneficial for your horse during cold weather..In this video, I cover:.When not to ride or do groundwork in winter (and why safety always comes first).How to reframe winter as a different season of training, not a setback.What you can do with your horse when footing is frozen and temperatures are extreme.How purposeful groundwork can keep horses mentally sharp and physically tuned.Letting go of the pressure to “always be doing more”.Using winter as a reset season for both horse and rider.I also talk honestly about the mental side of winter — the guilt, the “I should be doing more” mindset, and how stepping back can actually set you up for better progress when spring comes..If you live somewhere with harsh winters, no indoor arena, or limited daylight, this video is for you..❄️ Winter doesn’t have to mean losing progress — it can be a powerful time to build connection, consistency, and clarity..KL

🐎❄️ Why I’m Not Blanketing My Horses This Winter.Every winter, blanketing becomes one of the most debated topics in the horse world. In this video, I’m explaining why I’ve chosen not to blanket my horses this winter, even living in a cold climate like Alberta — and what factors go into that decision..This isn’t about saying blanketing is right or wrong. It’s about understanding your individual horse, their environment, their natural insulation, and their ability to thermoregulate. Blanketing is a management decision, not a trend — and it should always be made based on the horse in front of you..As a horse owner, it’s easy to feel pressure to manage your horse the same way others do — especially online. My goal with this video is to encourage educated, confident decision-making rooted in horsemanship, not comparison..If you’re navigating winter horse care, cold weather management, or trying to decide whether your horse needs a blanket, I hope this video helps you feel more informed and empowered..As always, horse care is not one-size-fits-all — and good horsemanship means adapting to your horse, your climate, and your conditions..KL

Everyone knows that horses aren't cheap. My dad used to say that competing in horse events was a rich man's sport. I don't know about that, but one thing I do know is that budgeting for your horse expenses is a very wise thing to do - especially in this era where it seems like things continue to go up in price..From feed to board to unexpected vet costs, we go through it all in today's video..KL

It's that time of year - time to set your goals for the year ahead. And as horse people I think it's important for us to think about our horse goals a little bit differently. Given that we are dealing with living, breathing animals where there are so many variables that could potentially derail our plans, thinking about how we can set goals knowing that things will almost inevitably pop up is really important..I'd love to hear what goals you are setting for you and your horse for 2026. Let me know in the comments. .And, remember, it's always a good day to ride..KL

Remember, it's always a good day to ride!

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KL

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Great deals on all of your favorite tack brands: https://www.pjatr.com/t/TUJGRUVJTEJGTUZJS0pCRkZNR0lK

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Be sure to follow me on Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stronginthesaddle⁠

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And also be sure to check out my podcast ⁠⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/WMXS8t0Mvvb⁠⁠ (also available on all major podcast platforms)

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My YouTube channel can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@stronginthesaddle

The new year is just over 100 days away! In this episode, we're not waiting for January 1st to begin. Instead, we're giving you a proactive playbook to get a massive head start. I’ll walk you through four essential things to do in September to set yourself up for a successful 2025. Learn why you should choose your training, how to start a 12-week year, the secret to creating your value statement, and simple steps for getting ahead on the holiday spirit.

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Remember, it's always a good day to ride!

.

KL

.

Great deals on all of your favorite tack brands: https://www.pjatr.com/t/TUJGRUVJTEJGTUZJS0pCRkZNR0lK

.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stronginthesaddle⁠

⁠.

And also be sure to check out my podcast ⁠⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/WMXS8t0Mvvb⁠⁠ (also available on all major podcast platforms)

.

My YouTube channel can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@stronginthesaddle

Following a deeply personal loss, it's time to confront the fragility of life and the true meaning of wealth. In this powerful episode, we explore the Stoic concept of Memento Mori—remembering your death—not as a morbid idea, but as a catalyst for living with purpose. We dive into the idea of time wealth, arguing that your ability to control your time is far more valuable than your financial assets. Learn how to stop being "time poor," prioritize what truly matters, and make every moment count. This is a must-listen for anyone who feels stuck in the daily grind and is ready to build a life of intention and freedom.

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Remember, it's always a good day to ride!

.

KL

.

Great deals on all of your favorite tack brands: https://www.pjatr.com/t/TUJGRUVJTEJGTUZJS0pCRkZNR0lK

.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stronginthesaddle⁠

⁠.

And also be sure to check out my podcast ⁠⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/WMXS8t0Mvvb⁠⁠ (also available on all major podcast platforms)

.

My YouTube channel can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@stronginthesaddle

You've heard of the fixed vs. growth mindset, but how do you actually make the switch? This episode is your manual. I'll take what I learned from Carol Dweck's groundbreaking work and turn it into a step-by-step guide for developing a growth mindset. Discover practical strategies to overcome self-limiting beliefs, embrace failure, and transform your relationship with effort. If you’re ready for real personal growth, hit play.

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Remember, it's always a good day to ride!

.

KL

.

Great deals on all of your favorite tack brands: https://www.pjatr.com/t/TUJGRUVJTEJGTUZJS0pCRkZNR0lK

.

Be sure to follow me on Instagram ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/stronginthesaddle⁠

⁠.

And also be sure to check out my podcast ⁠⁠https://spotifyanchor-web.app.link/e/WMXS8t0Mvvb⁠⁠ (also available on all major podcast platforms)

.

My YouTube channel can be found at https://www.youtube.com/@stronginthesaddle