By now, most of you know that Navy and I started taking riding lessons together a year ago (lifelong little girl dreams in full effect). This past weekend, we packed up with our best friends and barn fam and headed to Ocala for the girls to show at the World Equestrian Center. For the non-horsey crowd, picture an equestrian Disneyland—massive, elevated, and built for the sport.
It was nonstop from the moment we arrived—5 a.m. wake-up calls (because Navy had to be show-ready by 7:30), long days caring for our pony, cheering on our barnmates, and wrapping it all up with the best team dinners. Navy’s pony had a little extra energy (my horse girls know what I mean), but she handled it like a pro. I couldn’t be prouder of her attitude, her decisions, and—most importantly—her sportsmanship. We capped off the weekend watching the Longines 5* (a World Cup qualifier grand prix), and I swear, there’s nothing like seeing those athletes—both human and horse—at their peak. As we cheered them on, Navy lit up noticing the female riders like Lillie Keenan and Laura Kraut (“Whoa, Mom—that’s a girl!”). It was such a cool, empowering moment for her to see women competing at the highest level.
Style-wise, I leaned all the way into my “Ralph Lauren Sports Mom” vibe—classic pieces with an equestrian mood that made 5 a.m. feel slightly more put together. We stayed at The Equestrian Hotel, which is straight out of a dream—beautiful antiques, incredible art, and plenty of kid-friendly spots to wander. Truly a weekend straight from heaven for this horse girl.
