16 Memories of a Horse Camp Counselor

Horse-related summer jobs funded what I wanted to do more than anything: ride more horses. I’ve worked as a helper at a horse day camp, a counselor at a sleep-away horse camp and as a camp wrangler. I loved every single second of my horsey summer jobs, and I will never forget the memories.

I often go back to my photo albums (before Instagram hashtags could organize my photos) and reminisce on my summer fun. Not only did I get to spend hours upon hours with horses, but I also got to teach kiddos about horses. It was wonderful, and even hilarious at times. Some of the things I often remember include:

1. Waking up at 4:30 a.m. to push the horses back in to the paddock. So early, but so worth it.
2. Watching the sunrise since I was up at 4:30 a.m.
3. Living above the barn. Dream come true.
   
4. Helping a little camper sit in the saddle for the first time, take hold of the reins, take a deep breath and smile.
5. Reminding campers to not run around the horses – contain the excitement! Safety first when in the barn yard.
6. Consoling a crying (but thankfully not injured) camper because the horse tossed her off
7. Consoling a crying (but still not injured) camper because her horse looked at her funny
8. Cheering students on while they played games on horseback.
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9. Singing songs like “Wheels on the Bus” while leading campers on a trail ride
10. Listening to the campers talk about what the horses “think” of their riders. (And giggling because I do the exact same thing, even though I’m an “adult”)
11. Sporting an absolutely fantastic tan … on my arms only.
    
12. Recognizing other horsey counselors at counselor training day because they too had very tan arms … and very not tan legs.
13. Receiving a James Avery stirrup charm from one of my campers as a gift. I still wear it – it means so much to me.
14. Watching campers proudly teach each other new things – like how to properly tie a quick-release knot
15. Pushing horses back out into pasture for the night. Pure elegance and beauty.
    
16. Knowing I’d never have another summer like the one I was having – every summer, every camper, every horse and every memory was special.

What about you? What summer jobs and horsey experiences bring a smile to your face when you think back on them?

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Summer Jobs with Horses
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