ME
My name is Kerstin Joy, I am a young horse trainer based on the east coast currently. I am married and instill strong Christian beliefs and roles in my marriage and all aspects of my life. I am a jack of all trades with passion for artwork, writing, photography, home making, and of course the horses. I am so grateful God has given me the ability and opportunities to do what I do.
My Story
My testimony started with a freak accident on a colt that brought my life and dreams to a screeching halt. I was working as an assistant trainer in CA, 3000 miles away from home. I was loping a big quiet bay colt around one morning when I rolled a spur up his belly and was caught off guard when he went to bucking. I hit the arena dirt and immediate pain shot up my back, I saw my entire life and everything I had worked for flash before my eyes. I was thankful to be able to feel and wiggle my toes but then was too caught up with trying to breathe.
Multiple hours later, rolling around on the couch unable to find relief and some convincing from friends I went to the hospital. There we found out I had burst shattered my L1 vertebrae.
I was quickly faced with the reality I was not only going to have to take a break from what I loved but also leave the place/job I loved.
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Somewhere along the 3000 mile road trip back to NC I lost myself. I spent months trying to find the same girl that was loping around that morning. Instead I found empty bottles, wild nights and an even emptier heart.
I hit my bottom on the night of my birthday where I found myself weeping on a bathroom floor. I knew I had to change, that this wasn't who I was. I knew in that moment this season of my life was over. The help I found on the floor that night wasn't just fate though, it was the beginning of my faith in Christ. As I grew with him I grew in myself. I began watering the parts of me and my life that needed to grow with him. In doing so he granted me the opportunity to not only ride again but go back west to the place I loved.
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My accident made me realize just how much I took for granted. I still cant always see the reasoning behind it sometimes, especially when I feel behind in my goals. I'm quickly humbled and reminded how easily I could've ended up wheelchair bound for life. My goals are so insignificant compared to his plan. Nonetheless I am still capable of riding, training and chasing my dreams just as good if not even better than before. I find I don't ever take for granted each time I get to sit in my saddle.
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You never know the last time you'll put your foot in a stirrup is so go ahead and give your reins and heart to God.
Contact
I'm always open to talk about my faith; as well as connect with other people wanting to use their business to spread Gods love!