PPR is special to me because it is a place where I can go and feel safe and welcome.
When I first came to Perry Park Ranch it was beautiful. I loved all the mountains and scenery and how many horses there were. I tried two other barns before I came to Perry Park Ranch and the first just didn’t feel right, but when I came to PPR I loved it. All the people were so welcoming and kind, the horses seemed happy, and it was just absolutely beautiful.
The other barns I tried did not have such an incredible location and they just didn’t have the same feel. I have been riding for about three years and I have been at PPR for about two of them. My first year here, I was only riding for fun and enjoyment. I really loved the trainer Bridget, she truly helped me progress in my riding skills while still having fun, and helped me to build confidence. My first ride up the mountain was amazing. I was on a Tennessee walking horse named Picasso and he took such good care of me. Even though I was scared, I trusted Bridget and Picasso to keep me safe.
When I first came to Perry Park Ranch, I started with just lessons, but soon I started getting to know the horses and doing barn chores, and making friends. I think what made it so fun was handling the horses. Getting to know the horses and finding out my favorites helped me to gain more confidence and made riding more special.
About last January, I started to get super sick all the time with a chronic illness. I was missing a lot of school and some riding. However, riding was still one of the activities I could do. I think that pushing through and still riding, especially at PPR, made me a lot stronger and helped me to build resilience. Even just being around the horses and in the friendly environment helped me to feel better. PPR is special to me because it is a place where I can go and feel safe and welcome. Being at the ranch lets me do something I love and it makes it so much fun.