Riding & Writing...

Friday, September 1, 2023

Equestrian Inspiration: An Interview with Jenna Knudsen

Jenna Knudsen and Royal Viking

Equestrian Inspiration: An Interview with Jenna Knudsen

by Gina McKnight

Archived from the August 2023 Issued of Florida Equine Athlete

No Duplication without Permission

Several years ago, I purchased a S.M.A.R.T. Equestrian Planner. It has become my go-to planner for recording important events, appointments, writing lists/goals, keeping track of my horse and barn – basically keeping me on task every day of the year. Impressed with the planner, I searched for the author, Jenna Knudsen. In December 2018, I interviewed Jenna for my column. I was thrilled to connect with her recently to catch up.

Welcome, Jenna!

GM: It’s great to connect once again. Thank you for collaborating! What’s new since we last talked?

JK: It’s been quite a while since we last spoke, and I have so much to update you on! Since the world shut down, we have all had a chance to reflect on what truly matters in our lives. For me, my focus has been on coaching, planning, and community building with equestrians.

The Smart Equestrian Planner is now entering its ninth year of publication, in combination with our support of Facebook community. “Smarties” or “Smartieville” as we call it, is an online community of worldwide equestrian who gather in our cyber barn to support one another in planning lives we love.

Our approach is to help equestrians create a life vision, and a daily guide map to overcome obstacles, create goals, and discover how to create a positive mindset. This is a free online community with extraordinary engagement, and the only requirement is to have The Smart Equestrian Planner.

I am also excited to have Leg Up Coaching which is in its third year. Leg Up Coaching is a private online Coaching Community exclusively for equestrians interested in personal growth and development. This is a more personalized question community where we engage at a deeper level of commitment to our goals; whether equestrian, financial, spiritual, relationships…whatever is needed to improve our lives. Accountability is key here. We also enjoy fun times with guest speakers, bookclub, and ongoing motivation and inspiration.

I also perform private coaching for women who are going through life transformation. This could be moving to a new career, significant relationship issues, financial stress, and whatever is needed in a one on one client relationship.

Last, but certainly not least, I’ve been taking riders to Ireland. It’s been an incredible experience, like a camp for Equestrian women! Our time in Ireland has been nothing short of amazing, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with others.

GM: I adore your S.M.A.R.T. Equestrian Planner!. I've used it through the years and find it engaging, fun, and inspiring. Has the pandemic made an impact on your business and social networking?
JK: The pandemic has had a profound impact on our world, but for The Smart Equestrian Planner, it has brought about some unexpected positive changes. In fact, more equestrians than ever before are now engaging with our platform and joining our Smarties online community. This is especially important for those who may feel isolated on their farms or within their equestrian circles. Our cyber barn provides a welcome space for them to connect, share, and discuss their hopes and dreams in a safe and supportive environment.

As someone who values meaningful connections over mindless scrolling, I am thrilled to see the growth of our devoted online community. Witnessing the friendships, support, and transformations that have taken place within our cyber barn has been nothing short of inspiring. In my 13 years of coaching, I have never felt more energized or motivated than I do now.

GM: How can we purchase a 2024 Smart Equestrian Planner?

JK: The 2024 Smart Equestrian Planner will be available to purchase in September at https://www.thesmartequestrian.com/planner-community.

GM:As a Life Coach, what do you suggest to help post-pandemic anxiety and social fears?

JK: It's important to acknowledge that everyone's experience of the pandemic has been unique, and there is no right or wrong way to approach the new reality we are now living in. As we emerge from this challenging time, it's worth taking a moment to reflect on what truly matters in our lives. The pandemic has reminded us that life is precious and that we cannot take our days for granted. Rather than being morbid, this realization can help us to prioritize what is truly meaningful and avoid living on autopilot.

Instead of constantly pressuring ourselves to live up to certain expectations or "shoulds," I encourage everyone to bravely embrace the life they love, one day at a time. Planning can be an incredibly useful tool in this process, helping us to live more intentionally and thoughtfully. By taking the time to plan and prioritize, we can create a sense of calm and purpose in our lives, even in the face of uncertainty. So, let's all take a deep breath, reflect on what matters most to us, and approach each day with courage and intention.

GM: I love the idea of taking a trip to Ireland with like-minded riders! Tell us more about the itinerary, who is eligible to go, what to expect, and how to sign up...

JK: Our Smarties horseback holiday in Ireland is an unforgettable experience that will leave you with aching cheeks from laughing so much. Imagine a horse camp for adults, where everything is taken care of and all you have to do is show up, ride, and have fun. That's exactly what our six-day itinerary offers. Cait, the incredible woman who runs the show in Ireland, surprises us every year with new itinerary items that keep the trip fresh and exciting, even for repeat visitors like us.

We explore Ireland on horseback, visit quaint villages, savor delicious meals, take in breathtaking sights, and enjoy a non-stop slumber party vibe. It's an adventure that truly embodies the spirit of our Smarties community. You can learn more about the trip at connemaraequestrianescapes.com, and use code SMARTIES2024 for a $250.00 discount. We still have a few spots left for our June 2024 trip, so don't hesitate to reach out if you're interested in joining the shenanigans. Trust us, it's an experience you won't want to miss!

GM: For women who are looking for strategies to overcome obstacles, private coaching can be so important. As you say, accountability is key. What advice do you have for women who are interested in private coaching, but afraid to commit?

JK: As an equestrian life coach who offers both group and private coaching, I'm passionate about helping riders achieve their goals and reach their full potential. Whether you prefer the support and accountability of a group setting or the personalized attention of one-on-one coaching, I'm here to help you navigate the obstacles and challenges that come with pursuing your equestrian dreams.

Through group coaching with my Leg Up Coaching program, you'll have the opportunity to connect with like-minded equestrians, learn valuable strategies for success, and expand your knowledge of personal development. Private coaching, on the other hand, allows us to work together on a more personalized level, tailoring our approach to your unique needs and goals.

At the end of the day, it's all about finding the approach that works best for you. Whether you're looking to build your confidence in the saddle, improve your skills, or overcome personal obstacles holding you back, I'm here to provide the support and guidance you need to succeed. So, if you're ready to take the next step in your equestrian journey, let's connect and see how we can work together to make your dreams a reality!

GM: Of course, we want to know more about you - your horse(s), where you ride, and how horses have made an impact on your life...

JK: I've been riding horses since I was four years old, and it's fair to say that horses are in my DNA. My grandfather, Sven, and my father, Paul, were both equestrians, and I spent my youth in the show ring riding hunter/jumper. However, despite my years of experience, I struggled with anxiety and a lack of confidence in the saddle.

Through hard work and determination, I was able to overcome these obstacles and become a more confident rider. This journey inspired me to become a confidence coach, drawing on my own experiences to help others overcome their own challenges.

Today, I have two children, Katie and Liam. Katie shares my love of horses and is an excellent horsewoman in her own right. I currently have one horse, Royal Viking, who is a Clydesdale/Hackney cross and loves to Hunter Pace. While my goals have shifted over the years, particularly after experiencing several traumatic back injuries, my passion for horses has only deepened. I'm now more interested in developing my connection to horses and building communication skills that strengthen the bond between horse and rider.

I firmly believe that personal development is an essential aspect of being an outstanding horse person. That's why I help equestrians become the person their horse longs for them to be, coaching them to overcome their fears and challenges and become the best rider and partner they can be.

GM: You certainly look forward to the future with anticipation and enthusiasm. What are your future goals?

JK: I'm excited to share that I'm currently working on a book that will inspire equestrians everywhere. This is a passion project that's been on my mind for some time, and I'm thrilled to finally be bringing it to fruition. My goal is to create a book that speaks to equestrians of all backgrounds and experiences, sharing insights that will resonate with readers and inspire them to pursue their own equestrian dreams.

Once the book is complete, I plan to embark on a barn book tour, traveling from barn to barn to connect with like-minded equestrians around the world. The thought of meeting fellow horse lovers and sharing my passion with others fills me with a sense of excitement that's hard to put into words. It's a dream come true, and I can't wait to see where this journey takes me.

This book and barn book tour are my "holy grail" goals at the moment, and I'm pouring my heart and soul into making them a reality. I hope that my book and tour will not only inspire others but also serve as a testament to the power of pursuing your passions and following your dreams.

GM: List 10 things your fans may not know about you...

JK:

1. I hail from Denmark.

2. I initially pursued a path to become a nun, but horses eventually took over my heart.

3. My dad was a bookie, and my young life in Rye, New York, was reminiscent of The Sopranos.

4. I firmly believe in the magic and miracles that exist in the world.

5. I gave birth at home during a snowstorm with no midwife present because she was unable to arrive in time.

6. I'm known to cry easily due to my emotional nature.

7. I have a deep love for writing letters, particularly through snail mail.

8. Secretly, I dream of becoming a stand-up comedian.

9. I'm addicted to watching stand-up comedy and always looking for new material to enjoy.

10. I am a Swiftie, wholeheartedly embracing my love for Taylor Swift and her music.

Connect with Jenna…

Creator & Coach at The S.M.A.R.T. Equestrian

Email: thesmartequestrian@gmail.com

w: www.thesmartequestrian.com

Click Here to Order your 2023 Planner!

The Smart Equestrian Planner 2022 & Smarties Community

SMARTIES riding in IRELAND

Jenna in Ireland

Jenna and Royal Viking

Monday, August 28, 2023

Milliron Monday: Letters Home Feb 5 1960

Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.: June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith: April 2, 1938 - May 9, 2021

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Milliron Farm and Clinic, Dr. Pete and Jody Smith.

"Tomorrow night should be a fun time - it's the big vet dance of the quarter which is always one of the fun dances of the campus."

― Jody Smith

Jody's letter home to Mansfield, Ohio. Backstory: Gary Franklin is Pete and Jody's nephew; Mike is their Irish Setter living with Jody's parents; Pooh is the family cat; Jessie, Jody's grandmother, ordered a ham for the couple's Christmas and it hasn't arrived.

917 Remington

Fort Collins, Colorado

Sunday, December 13, 1959

Hi All,

Thanks for the picture of Gary Franklin. He surely is cute!

The ladies in the bookstore had been pestering me to bring our wedding pictures over and show them so I finally did. They really liked them. I appreciate them more and more every time I look at them. It's certainly nice to have such a pretty wedding book to show to people -thanks again and again for everything. The day and the picture remembrances of it.

Mike's AKC registry number is on his registration and on his pedigree - also on any of the obedience trial stuff which I saved. I hope, but I don't know for sure, that it's possibly in the pet folder from my file manila folder) which is possibly in the things I left in the big chest in Jessie's room, the shoe cabinet, my old closet or else up in the attic. Also, might look in the pages of that German Shepherd book (black book, plastic cover which is probably in the bookshelves in the livingroom somewhere). Sorry I can't remember exactly where it is.

A BabeeTenda (highchair) would be real nice but I'm sure we won't be needing that for quite a while.

Tomorrow night should be a fun time - it's the big vet dance of the quarter which is always one of the fun dances of the campus. I'm planning on wearing that green brocade sheath with the detachable harem skirt. Fortunately, our young'un isn't protruding enough to even make the sheath hard to zip up - I tried it on tonight to be sure - but my middle seems suddenly to be growing by leaps and bounds so I don't suppose it'll be too long before our baby will be a bit obvious.

Supposed to be a bit warmer tomorrow so Nancy Sonneman and I plan to get in a bit of riding - hope to squeeze it in between studies and housework.

My industrious and talented husband just whipped up a bookcase to house our ever-growing supply of books. He really did a nice job - of course. Pooh supervised everything, but still, it's pretty nice for only 2 1/2 hours time and cheap lumber.

Bye for now. Love,

Jody

P.S. Thanks for the clippings. Jess, we got a letter from Jones' Dairy Farm saying they were sending the ham in a few days. Thank you for writing them again.

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Connect with Gina...

Milliron Facebook Page

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian.

Thursday, August 24, 2023

This Week at Monday Creek: Equine Respiratory Evaluation Tool

Summer greetings from Monday Creek USA! A busy time of year for everyone, we are preparing for the winter months and working on the release of several new titles at Monday Creek Publishing.

Recently, the folks at Aservo EquiHaler sent me a package, including a Press Release for their new Equine Respiratory Evaluation Tool. It's for horses that suffer from asthma - labored breathing, constant cough and sneezing. You can find out more at aservoequihaler.com.

As a horse owner, our horse's health is paramount. Like dogs and cats, our horses are part of the family and we consider their healthcare just as much as our own. Hay quality, nutrition, adequate fresh water, and TLC are required. If you are in need of an overall equine evaluation, check with your local veterinarian and farrier for appropriate feeding and wellness requirements.

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

An Interview with World Poetess N.R.Hart

An Interview with World Poetess N.R.Hart

With a new book release, N.R.Hart welcomes you to her world – her poetry world. A world where romance and emotion is paramount. Hart’s poetry resonates with readers from around the world, from many cultures and diverse geographic. As a best-selling poetess, Hart spends her days writing on the beach, in quaint coffee shops, or from the privacy of her Victorian-inspired home. I caught up with Hart and asked about her new book Twin Flame Love: Romantic Poetry, a worldwide favorite and the fourth in a beautiful hardcover series.

Welcome, N.R.!

GM: What would you like readers to take away from Twin Flame Love?

NH: I would love for my readers to read Twin Flame Love and take away from it that there may be a certain love story during your lifetime that is unexplainable. A once-in-a-lifetime love that is unlike all the rest. That you don't have to make sense of it all. Many people try to make sense of a deep love because they have not experienced anything like it before. They have feelings they have never felt before. It is not to be explained. Magic can't be explained, you just feel it!

GM: What is the motivation for your success?

NH: My motivation is simply to tell a story and if people can relate to that story then I have given them a voice for their feelings. I have given them words for their silence. That is a big thing for me. To be a voice for my readers, if they are struggling to find the words. I simply have found the words for them. If that has made me successful, it is only because my readers have believed in me from the beginning. And, I thank them for that.

GM: What drives your creativity?

NH: I am asked all the time by my fans what inspires me. And the answer is everything around me inspires me. All of life is writable. My creative outlet is paying attention and experiencing life around me. I find romance in everything! I think when you have a voice inside you that will not be silent, you must use it to the best of your ability. I love something as untouchable as feelings, as vast as love is, the creative challenge of putting those feelings into words.

GM: Are you working on a new poetry collection?

NH: I am currently working on a few projects right now, one being a new poetry collection and a children's poetry collection in the near future.

GM: Take us through a day in your life...

NH: I am a lover of nature. You can find me outside most days enjoying the sunshine, seeking out flower shops, bookstores, quaint coffee shops, museums. I love art and history. My days mostly consist of writing and more writing in different spots that I find charming and inspiring. Of course, my sweet dog Bella accompanies me whenever possible.

GM: With many fans worldwide, do you have a favorite fan-anecdote you would like to share?

NH: I think the one that stands out the most is I have been told more than once by my fans that they are surprised to find out that I am a modern poet from this century vs. a dead poet. And, my answer is always the same. It is truly a compliment for me that my poetry is thought of as from a different era, a time gone by. I really am an "old soul" at heart.

GM: Your book covers are beautiful. Will you be working with Logan Rogers, Illustrator, again for your next book cover?

NH: Logan Rogers is an amazing artist and I hope to be working with him on future covers. It is not an easy thing expressing your vision to someone else so they can paint it for you and make it a reality. And, after working with Logan all these years, yes he expresses my visions beautifully!

GM: Besides writing poetry, what do you like to do for fun?

NH: I think as a writer, this takes up most of my time, it really is a 24 hour job. Any writer will tell you that we are a reclusive group of people with only a few close friends. But, when I am not writing, I do love spending time reading novels, going out with friends, taking walks with my dog, trying new coffee shops and restaurants, attending movies and visiting art museums.

GM: Where do you see yourself in ten years?

NH: Honestly speaking, I live for today. That's the romance part of it! I am fully present in the now and try not to think too much about the future, but I hope to have a couple romance novels written along with my children's poetry book as part of my long term accomplishments.

Connect with Hart…

Amazon Author Page

Facebook Instagram Etsy

www.nrhart.com

Bio: N.R.Hart began writing poetry at a young age and used her poetry as a way to express her innermost thoughts and emotions. A true romantic at heart, she expresses feelings of love, hope, passion, despair, vulnerability and romance in her poetry. Trapping time forever and a keeping memories is what she loves most about the enduring power of poetry. Her poetry has been so eloquently described as "words delicately placed inside a storm." Poetry is here to make us feel instead of think; as thinking is for the mind and poetry is for the heart and soul. N.R.Hart hopes to open up your heart and touch your soul with her poetry.

Monday, August 21, 2023

Milliron Monday: Letters Home Jan 31 1960

Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.: June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith: April 2, 1938 - May 9, 2021

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Milliron Farm and Clinic, Dr. Pete and Jody Smith.

"I'm not looking forward to looking like a brood mare."

― Jody Smith

Jody's letter home to Mansfield, Ohio. Backstory: Jody and Pete are seniors at Colorado State University. Jody is in her second trimester and continues to ride Starboy. Besides school, Pete works for the local greyhound racetrack vetting dogs. Jody's parents stay in close contact, sending weekly letters, gifts, etc.

917 Remington

Fort Collins, Colorado

Sunday, January 31, 1960

Hi All,

Thanks so much for all the recent presents - quite pleasant surprises. The baby clothes are certainly darling and I'm sure I'll appreciate the multitude of diapers more and more at a later date. The car seat and bed arrived in perfect condition. It surely is a fancy little thing and I'm sure we'll really be able to use it a lot. The bed seems quite nice enough for a regular bed as well as a car bed, at least til our young'un gets big enough to climb out.

Thanks also for the white monogramed blouse. I'm almost anxious to wear all these pretty new things but I'm not looking forward to looking like a brood mare. I still haven't gained any weight - certainly hope I won't gain more than 15 pounds.

Hope I haven't forgotten to thank you for anything, so many packages are certainly exciting.

Thanks also for the envelope with all the cards, etc. Did you need Stelio's address back? I saved it in case you did.

This weekend has been beautiful. I rode Starboy Friday for about an hour, yesterday for an hour and hope to go riding a little today with Nancy Sonneman. I've sure got lots of homework to get accomplished but I hate to pass up this beautiful weather especially since my riding activities will have to be curtailed in another three months.

I received a letter from Shirley Yarney, she's getting married in June and then her husband will be entering medical school in the fall.

Also had a letter and brochure from Mrs. Wilder. Her trip for next summer looks very interesting, up into Scotland, etc., and not so many days in Italy! Did she send you one?

I'm still getting scolded for my tardy letter writing habits. I haven't written Pete's folks since before Christmas so I got a letter yesterday inquiring about my silence. Guess I'd best make amends quickly.

Love,

Jody

Previous Letters Home:

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Connect with Gina...

Milliron Facebook Page

Amazon Author Page

Milliron: The Biography

www.gmcknight.com

www.mondaycreekpublishing.com

Monday, August 14, 2023

Milliron Monday: Letters Home Jan 23 1960

Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.: June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith: April 2, 1938 - May 9, 2021

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate the legacy of Milliron Farm and Clinic, Dr. Pete and Jody Smith.

"I've been feeling much better, the morning sickness is nearly over."

― Jody Smith

Jody's letter home to Mansfield, Ohio. Backstory: There were two letters in this envelope, a day apart. If you're following along, you know that Jess is Jody's grandmother, Mike is Pete ant Jody's Irish Setter staying with Jody's parents, Jody is pregnant, both Pete and Jody are still attending Colorado State University. The ballerina painting Jody refers to was purchased on her trip to Europe and is in overseas transit.

917 Remington

Fort Collins, Colorado

Saturday, January 23, 1960

Dear All,

Received your letter today, Mom. Also received your two other letters - one sent airmail and one regular. Both arrived in same delivery (a couple of days ago).

I don't see why you think I won't graduate in June. The doctor says this nausea should be over in the first three months so it should be quitting pretty soon. The only possible problem I could foresee - barring general ill health or accident which could happen anytime - would be if I began student teaching and was unable to finish it because of school laws - wouldn't be able to wear maternity clothes, etc. The doctor said if I had lots of full skirts I could get by with them since I shouldn't need maternity clothes until the fifth month. But, as you probably remember, the part of my wardrobe which I would need for student teaching - dresses, heels, hose - are mostly sheath dresses and knit suits. So if I would start student teaching and not finish it, although I probably would be able to finish, I would lose out on the credits and might not graduate.

But, at any rate, I decided tonight not to student teach. It is certainly a load off my mind. I was really dreading this next quarter. I would have had to take all education courses all quarter and they're such a pain. Now I'll be able to pick up more English courses which I'll at least enjoy a hundred times more and I'm sure I'll get more out of them.

I talked to Dr. Bostrom before I told the Education department and she said that, although getting the teacher's certificate would be good insurance, in most states you can get a temporary teaching job and pick up extra courses in the summer to get a permanent teaching certificate. I hope this decision won't cause me any problems in the future but at least it's certainly solved a few present worries.

I'm sorry to hear about Mr. Kenny.

Can't remember when I wrote last - maybe I already told you that Pete and I had a nice afternoon visit with the Beagles in Boulder. They seemed quite happy to see us and talked again about what fun they'd had cart riding, etc. We had a real pleasant Christmas Eve and Day with the Betts in Denver. Missed seeing you all, though.

Thanks again for the gifts and thank you particularly, Aggie and Gary, for the pretty gold and glass dishes.

Jess, we still haven't gotten anything from Jones' Dairy Farm. Guess our Christmas breakfasts will be a bit late. I wrote them to deliver it anytime between the 19th and 24th of December. This week we got a letter from them that they are sending us a package so it'll most likely get here next week sometime. We've certainly enjoyed the fruit. It's been wonderful to have an icebox full of such juicy oranges and grapefruits.

Mom, do you know if that picture frame man ever sent the ballerina picture? I surely hope it wasn't lost in transit.

Starboy is just fine. I rode him again today and he surely feels peppy and wants to run. Pooh is getting fatter every day. He's such a sweet kitty and really an eccentric little pet. I always thought Siamese cats were the only insane ones but Pooh's quite a personality pet himself.

Pete and I ought to be ready for school again! I think we've slept about 50% of the time. We generally get up for breakfast around noon. What a lazy life!

Guess I'd best get to bed - it's nearly 10:20!

Hope all of you, including Mike, are fine.

Love,

Jody

Sunday, January 24, 1960

Hi All,

Just a short note before we go to bed.

Didn't accomplish much this weekend expect to catch up on a bit of sleep and pay Dr. Rumley my monthly call. I'm in good health, according to her, so that's good news. I've been feeling much better, the morning sickness is nearly over. I haven't started gaining weight yet, in fact I've lost five pounds - weight 120 - so I hope I can keep from gaining too much weight. Dr. Rumley seems quite nice and takes time to answer questions and just talk. Her whole bill including a visit each month, then twice a month the last month or so, the delivery and checking on me and the baby every week for six weeks afterwards is around $123, which seems reasonable. Of course, the hospital bill will probably be a lot more, but we have a while to worry about that.

Also took advantage of the 40 degree weather Saturday afternoon to enjoy a beautiful ride with Starboy. Pete exercised him for a couple of hours this afternoon while I studied, so perhaps between the two of us we can keep him in shape. Pete wormed him last week under the direction of Dr. Pierson from the school clinic so he ought to be in fine health for the rest of the winter.

Jess, I don't know what the situation is with that ham and things from Jones' Dairy Farm but if you've already paid them, I hope you can get your money back. We haven't gotten a thing nor had a letter from them since early in January saying they were sending us a package. If you'd like, I'll write and tell them we didn't receive it.

Before I forget, have a happy anniversary next weekend, Gary and Aggie.

Love,

Jody

P.S. The baby is due around the 10th of July, according to Dr. Rumley's calculations.

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