I can never remember a time in my life not loving horses as they were introduced to me at a young age by my Aunt Fran.  How I loved spending weekends in Mound, MN at Fortitude Farm where she taught me the does and don’ts of horsemanship.  My favorite time with this crazy horse lady was at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival in Shakopee, MN back in the 1980’s.  She was the black knight.  This was so cool!  In 1984 I married, moving around for the next 10 years while my husband finished out his Naval career.  The idea of ever owning a farm or horse was little to none. After moving back to the Twin Cities in1995, we settled into a normal life.  Fast forward to December 8, 2015, my equestrian hero died.  How do I go on?  Where will I get my horse fix when needed?  In the fall of 2017 I was introduced to Sweet Manes.  Those little fur babies and volunteers saved me!  So, began my journey of learning how to handle a mini horse for therapy purposes.  My heart was so full, yet something was missing.  The quest to find land began.  After almost two years of searching the dream became a reality, on April 13, 2020, Fortitude 4Ƹver Farm was established in Empire Township, MN in memory of my equestrian hero.  Once moved, the dream will be a reality.  I cannot wait to bring joy to the lives of people with my own mini horses.  In my daily life I am reminded each day to stay humble, keep my heels down and remember God is in control.   Also, the boots I have to fill are awfully big!