Riley is the heart and hands behind the equine-guided experiences at Root and Reins. A lifelong animal lover and natural with children, Riley grew up immersed in both education and horsemanship. From a young age, she spent countless hours alongside her mother (Carrie) in classroom settings observing how learning and connection grow through rhythm and care.

With over a decade of dedicated equestrian experience, Riley has earned numerous awards and recognitions in riding, training, and competition. Her gentle leadership style and deep respect for the horse–human relationship make her a trusted and beloved guide for young riders, individuals and families alike.

For the past five years, Riley has offered private and group riding instruction, introducing children and adults to the principles of horsemanship, safety, confidence, and empathy through groundwork and mounted lessons. She brings intuitive awareness and patient coaching to each session at Root and Reins (ground work only).

A New Chapter for Root & Reins

Root & Reins was originally created as a place to offer equine-guided wellness experiences inspired by the profound lessons horses have taught our family over the years. My daughter and I dreamed of sharing those experiences together, but life has a way of unfolding in unexpected seasons. Today, she continues working with horses where she lives, while I have been called in a different direction.

Although our paths now lead us to different places, the heart of Root & Reins remains the same.

To me, true wellness is the harmonious cultivation of mind, body, and soul. It's found in the quiet rhythms of everyday life—in meaningful work, time spent in nature, thoughtful learning, faithful presence, and caring for one another. Those values continue to shape everything I create and share here.

For this season, Root & Reins will focus on encouraging homeschool families through thoughtfully curated resources, seasonal companions, practical encouragement, and reflections on parenting. My hope is to help families cultivate peaceful homes and resilient children while embracing the beauty of lifelong learning together.

The horse in our logo remains as a quiet reminder of where this journey began. Horses taught our family lessons in patience, trust, gentleness, and perseverance—lessons that continue to influence how I approach homeschooling, parenting, and life itself.

I still hope to offer equine-inspired wellness experiences again in the future when the opportunity arises. Until then, I invite you to join me here as we explore the simple, meaningful work of nurturing homes where children and parents alike can learn, grow, and flourish—always inspired by the natural world along with the quiet wisdom of horses.