A Day in My Barn Life
By Jenna Berry (Silver Lining Stables)
We don’t have grooms, so all the day-to-day work falls on us. I fill waters, give meds, and make sure everyone’s in one piece. Then I drag the arena and water it down so it’s ride-ready.
Turnouts come next—some horses sprint out of the gate, others need a little coaxing. I know who needs boots, who can’t go out next to who, and who’ll roll immediately (even when they shouldn’t).
After that, I start riding. I usually have a few horses to work before lessons start. No two rides are ever the same, and honestly, that’s what keeps it interesting. Then it’s time to teach. Whether it’s a green kid on a pony or someone prepping for a show, I enjoy helping people figure things out.
Around midday, the horses get lunch, and I prep grain buckets for dinner. I might grab a quick bite myself—might not. If there are errands, I squeeze them in now. Then it’s afternoon turnouts or time on the hot walker for a few that need the extra movement.
Later in the day I’ll ride again, or give more lessons. It’s non-stop until dinner feeding and buckets are done. I do a final check on everyone before I call it a night.
It’s long days, a lot of physical work, and it’s not always pretty—but I wouldn’t trade it. The barn’s where I feel grounded. The horses don’t care if you’re tired or behind schedule—they just need you to show up. And I do, every day.