By Mary Kurnik
@marykurnikauthor
When a dream is deep in one’s heart, there is a reason why. It won’t let go. Years can pass. Hardships, joy, accomplishments, relationships will ebb and flow, many hours of hard work realized, and the dream remains. Maybe over time it is buried deep inside; almost forgotten. Life demands so much of us. But when that dream is realized…it’s like a butterfly emerging from the darkness of the cocoon. In one moment of time, a dream can come true. But one has to say “YES!” to the opportunity before it slips through one’s fingers.
I was a mere three years old when I had my first pony ride during a summer family camping trip near Lake Erie. It was love at first sight. The seed was planted to have a horse of my own someday. This strong sense of yearning never left. In the “in-between stage” of having a horse of my own, I rode during summer vacations. Once I moved to Florida, Saturdays were designated as trail riding days with my bestie. When I traveled with friends, we went riding or at the very least, visited farms where the horses lived. Fast forward to my honeymoon, trail riding was a mandatory scheduled activity, and my husband was now part of my passion, like it or not. I’d rather think he enjoyed himself as the landscape of the canyons are better seen on the back of a horse.
How meaningful it’s been to be in their company and know these gentle souls who ask for very little and give more than their share. So much more.
In the Spring of 2009, I met the most graceful, sweet mare named Dixie. My children had riding lessons and summer camps with Dixie in our neighborhood. Later, we leased Dixie and spent even more time with her. We took care of her when her family was away on vacations. In 2018, Dixie needed a forever home. I hesitated and thought of all the reasons against, but couldn’t deny a grip so tight, that somehow the dream I had at three was about to come true.
For the following two years, Dixie and I bonded even more so, and we both welcomed a mini donkey named Sweet Millie into our lives.
Then, a tragedy happened in May 2020 when my life was turned upside down. It would take every bit of strength I had to begin a healing journey in mind, body and spirit. My horse and mini donkey have been my constant companions on this journey of healing. There is no judgment or need to speak. The pace is unhurried. We live in the present with intention and nature all around us.
There is a reason why.
Now I know why horses have always been a part of my life. I believe in God’s sovereignty with all my heart. It’s as if the little girl inside of me never left and takes joy in the wonder of everyday life.
About Mary Kurnik
Mary lives in Tampa, Florida, with her husband John. Her writings have been featured in The Way Back to Ourselves Literary Journal, The Old Schoolhouse Magazine and The Florida Parent Educator Association’s Connect Magazine. Mary can be found on Instagram and Facebook
@marykurnikauthor.
Share your favorite recipe + their story
Hey there, friend!
I want to welcome you to the newest addition to the Farmhouse Storyteller Journal- Homestead Hearth, where we celebrate the heart and soul of homestead cooking. Our homestead is a cherished gathering place for tired hog drivers to Sunday dinner. Just as the hearth symbolizes warmth and togetherness, we invite you to join us in sharing the cherished recipes that have brought nourishment and joy to our family table.
Since returning to the country, I have found that food is more than just sustenance – it’s a connection to our past, a celebration of family roots, and a way to create lasting memories. That’s why we’re not just sharing our own family recipes; we’re extending the table to welcome contributions from YOU! Whether it’s a treasured recipe that’s been passed down through generations or a new favorite that captures the spirit of homestead living, we invite you to share it with our community.
Reach out by replying to this email or writing me at danielle@farmhousestoryteller.com.
So come, pull up a chair, and join us by the hearth. Let’s celebrate the bounty of the homestead together, one delicious recipe at a time.
Have a question? Drop me a line here.
Grounded in the Middle Podcast- Dr. Alan Weissenbacher, Author of the Brain Change Program
Dr. Alan Weissenbacher, after studying biology and attending seminary, served as a chaplain for the Denver Rescue Mission, where he helped relocate homeless and addicted individuals to a farm for rehabilitation. This experience, coupled with a desire to enhance Christian rehabilitation, led him to pursue a doctorate focusing on neuroscience and spiritual formation at the Center for Theology and the Natural Sciences in Berkeley. As managing editor of the journal Theology and Science, Alan has published extensively on the intersection of science, religion, and ethics, including contributions to several academic journals and textbooks. Now residing in Castro Valley, California, he balances his roles as a full-time father and public speaker. For more on his work, visit BrainChangeProgram.com or follow him on social media.
Grounded in the Middle podcast is available wherever you listen to podcasts, or you can easily listen by clicking below. I’d be so grateful if you would rate, subscribe, and share.
A Blueprint for Intentional Living – Grounded in the Middle.
Up Coming Guest-Subscribe so you don’t miss an episode!
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Farmhouse Storyteller Playlist
If you’d like to tune in to what I’m listening to out here in the middle, you can join me on Spotify where I have a playlist titled, Farmhouse Storyteller. You can easily find the station by directly clicking play to the right or searching for Farmhouse Storyteller on the Spotify app.
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