From Grief to Grounding: My Weekend Reset with Horses and Nature

This past weekend was perfect—calm, comforting, and exactly what I needed.

Since losing my grandmother in 2023, holidays have been hard. There’s the emotional buildup—the weeks of anticipating how I’ll feel, turning down well-meaning invitations, and then, of course, the day itself. My grandmother and I shared so many holiday traditions, and I still haven’t found a way to celebrate that both brings me joy and honors her memory.

So, for the past couple of years, I’ve taken a different approach: skipping the traditional celebrations and instead doing something that genuinely brings me peace. Whether it’s a long sanity stroll at one of my favorite beaches or spending the day at the barn, holidays now look a little different—and I’m okay with that. Instead of celebrating with people, I’m celebrating with intention, leaning into the things that make me feel most like myself.

Fortunately, this weekend brought the most spring-like weather we’ve had so far. On Saturday, it felt like a warm summer day—perfect for a long-overdue barn visit. It was the first time I’d been up there in a while, and it felt good to reconnect with everyone and linger a little longer after my ride. Afterward, I met a friend for dinner and took an evening stroll along a local beach. The night stayed warm, so I was glad I opted for a breezy summer dress paired with my favorite denim jacket. We timed it right and caught the most beautiful sunset after our meal.

On Sunday, I visited my grandmother’s grave and left her fresh flowers—a small gesture that still means a lot. I spent the rest of the day at the barn. It was cooler than Saturday, but I had the whole place to myself, which felt like the perfect way to spend the holiday this year—quiet, reflective, and exactly what I needed.

Here’s a little recap of my weekend: