We met Beth in early 2021 through Ali Perkins LaTorre. Ali taught dressage to both Beth and Kinsley and she connected us so Beth could begin teaching Kinsley to event. That was the beginning of a wonderful year of learning, teamwork, and fun for all of us.
We would go up to her beautiful farm and sometimes stay 8 hours with her - riding some and then hanging out laughing and sharing stories.
Beth was caring and warm and hilarious. I think one of my favorite Beth stories is the day she and I were chatting and Kinsley (12 yrs. old @ that time) began galloping (on her legs only - this is an important note to the story) like a horse and jumping the small jump/s near Echo's pasture area. Pretty soon Beth noticed her. She told Kinsley something to the effect that she used to enjoy doing that too and that she was very good at it. She proceeded to walk over to Kinsley and crouch down on all fours. Then in the crouched position using her feet and hands, she galloped off very (!) fast over the jumps. Kinsley watched her and tried to mimic her way, but couldn't do it as well. She quickly joined Beth anyway and they were galloping around together jumping the jumps. I just stood there rather awestruck. When they stopped, we all just burst out laughing. Maybe you had to be there that day to appreciate the story, but it was hilarious. It's one example of Beth's youthful and brave spirit (not to mention perfect fitness level) that made us gravitate to spending hours and hours of time with her. She will forever be treasured and missed. |
