2021: A Look Back Before Galloping Forward

Happy New Year! May it be the most spur jingling yet. As we gallop into the New Year, I am pausing in my pursuit of happiness to just be happy for a moment. I think it's important to celebrate last year's successes before saddling up to tackle 2022's goals. So in this brief look back before galloping forward, here are my favorite moments of 2021. 

2021 Goal: Ride More & Worry Less

This is a goal I'll be taking with me into 2022. Last year, I joined a local saddle club. In the evenings, I've been trailering both Sissy and Tanner the mile up the road to the club and riding in a huge, well-groomed arena with my neighbor. It's been so fun taking the horses out to explore Arizona's trails, too.

Getting to know my neighbor and her family has been the biggest gift. We've become best barn buddies. She loves her saddle time as much as I do. We've even gotten my hubby in the saddle several times. Here's to horse friends! 

I feel so fortunate to ride my horses against a backdrop of mountains and experience the most breathtaking sunsets I've ever seen. I am one lucky cowgirl.

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My First Big Cowgirl Truck

It's was even easier to get my riding time in because something really exciting happened! Even though I loved my other truck, and it took us safely from Michigan to Texas to Arizona, it was finally time for an upgrade. Last year, I got my first BIG GIRL DREAM TRUCK. I hope you enjoy the video of the big day we brought our new truck home.

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In the Reins Book Four Was Published

I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who has picked up a copy of the newest book in the In the Reins series, Beyond Eight Seconds. 
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The wonderful comments you've shared with me since I released the book have moved, touched, and inspired me. It means the world to me that my words have kept you company and then left you warm inside once you closed the pages of my book. I appreciate each and every one of you for reading my stories!

Readers are saying:
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"For the REAL Horse Girl. This book is for the horse girl who will do ANYTHING for her horse. Who will stop at nothing to get better for her partner and learn everything she needs to succeed. I can't count the number of times Carly's words went straight into my heart. Read the book. You will love it!" - Amazon Reader Review
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"Great book!! I love the way the story just reels you in and makes you feel that you are right there! Can’t wait to read the next book in the series. This truly would make a great movie!" - Amazon Reader Review

If you would like a copy of any of the books in the In the Reins series, please follow this link: https://books2read.com/ap/8N55WD/Carly-Kade

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American Horse Publications Conference in Texas

The American Horse Publications (AHP) Conference in Texas was cowgirlicious, so I made a little mini-movie of the festivities.

Over the course of three days, I visited the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, rode a Longhorn at the Fort Worth Stockyards, found a HUGE fork, and spent time learning from and networking with incredible equine creatives!

It was a joy to be back in the saddle attending this conference in person. 

I'm a proud member of American Horse Publications. If you are looking to network, develop your skills and make meaningful connections with other equestrians who write about horses, this is the organization for you! I highly recommend attending their annual conference, too.

Equine Authors - Gallop over and check out AHP. They are a friendly, smart, enthusiastic bunch. Tell them Carly sent you!

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Western Life Magazine Article

​This one's for the COWGIRLS who love BOOKS! I'm incredibly proud to have contributed an article on Western Must-Reads to Western Life Magazine.

Western Life, presented by Horse Illustrated, is a must-have magazine for cowgirls who are passionate about horses. Discover western fashion and décor trends, profiles of cowgirl trendsetters, western horse breeds, riding tips and trending sports, as well as equestrian travel destinations.

Find out more here: https://www.horseillustrated.com/product/horse-illustrated-special-issue-western-life

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Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast

The podcast is going strong! I published my 95th episode in December of 2021.

The Equestrian Author Spotlight Podcast is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with equine authors who love all things horses and writing about them. In each episode, you’ll hear inspirational stories from horse book authors, including writing advice and marketing tips to help you write your own horse book. 

I learn so much from other equine authors and appreciate how unique each of our writing journeys are. I love that all the authors featured in this series are linked through our creativity, passion for writing, and love of horses. I think it is so important to support each other.

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May 2022 Be Bright!

​It's hard to believe that Sissy has been home with me for two years and we've added Tanner to our herd! I've never been so happy. Sometimes I still can't believe it.

Since I became Sissy's horse mom 16 years ago, we have been on quite a journey together from Michigan, to Texas, and to Arizona, which is now our forever home. I am so grateful to look out my window and see my girl in my backyard. The inspiration for my horse books comes from time spent at the barn, and now that barn is at home. 

This year I plan to make more time to do what makes my soul happy.

I hope you do, too. Remember to live in the moment and find your flow. Go outside to enjoy the fresh air, walk the dogs, ride the horses, start writing the book you've been longing to write, relax with some yoga or meditation, kick back with a book, or learn something new. 

Thank someone today for being an important part of your story. I thank you for being part of mine. If the wild ride of the last two years taught me anything, it is to appreciate everything. I have a deep love for what I do and I am very thankful that I am able to do it.

I appreciate you for being a part of my journey.

Happy 2022,
Carly

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