I’m writing this as an equestrian mum. But I’m also writing it as a horse owner. And as a woman who spent a long time believing that if I just tried harder, planned better, or managed myself more efficiently, I could make it all work without anything slipping. Motherhood corrected that belief fairly quickly. Guilt is often framed as something that arrives with motherhood. As if it’s part of the deal. But guilt existed long before I became a mum. Motherhood didn’t create it - it intensified it. Because when you add horses into the mix, the guilt multiplies.

Motherhood is equal parts joy and load-bearing. I’m sharing more of the hard days- not as a cry for help, but as a bridge. Vulnerability creates connection, and connection can be prevention for mama’s mental health. If you’re here, you’re not alone.