Hay Chix Buckle Safety Covers

I’ve been a huge fan of this company for years, both for the quality of products and their customer service. I have their hay nets in all of my stalls. But I do blanket, and the issue of buckles getting caught in nets has always been a concern. The crew at Hay Chix has come up with an easy and cost-effective solution: a pack of 12 buckle covers (in three different sizes) that easily Velcro over blanket buckles to lessen the chance of getting stuck. They’re super sturdy, the different size options have worked on all of my different blanket brands, and they’re super easy-on-easy-off. These make great gifts for barn friends—and you may as well pick up a pack or two for your own stocking.

Shop for $20 on haychix.com.

Always Remember: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, the Horse, and the Storm by Charley Mackesy

If you are an equestrian who has not yet heard of the British artist Charlie Mackesy, do your heart a service and check him out. His latest book Always Remember is the sequel to his first—The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse—and like its predecessor, is a gorgeous combination of beautifully-minimalist illustrations and simple, yet profound life lessons on friendship, kindness and resiliency. The messages in Always Remember brought me to tears, and I bought three copies for my dearest friends for the holidays… and caved and gave one early to a friend who I thought could use its inspiration sooner. This book is a work of art, and a gorgeous gift for just about anyone on your list.

Shop for $18.88 for the hardcover book on Amazon, or visit Mackesy’s website for originals, prints, cards, and other gorgeous gifts.

Venustas Fleece Heated Vest and More

Venustas is a newer competitor to the heated clothing market that’s definitely worth a look. I’ve been wearing their women’s heated fleece vest all fall and have been thrilled with the quality and the fit. It’s more tapered and less boxy than others I’ve tried—the most flattering heated vest I’ve come across. In fall temps, it’s great as an outer layer on its own, or layer it under a heavier coat during the coldest weather. It has three heat settings, and the battery life is long; I cranked it to the highest setting for the bulk of a chilly campfire and it kept me warm all night. The heating elements all the way up the neck made a really toasty difference. The company also has heated sweatshirts, jackets, gloves, and socks, so they’ve got gift options in a variety of price ranges so you can check off lots of loved ones on your list!

Shop on venustas.com.

Art by Willow – Custom Embellished Horse Prints

How many of us would love to own—or to gift—a custom horse portrait but are hampered by the cost? Most of us? I met the lovely Willow Barnes at the All-American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio and she’s come up with a genius, and gorgeous, way to cut the cost of a custom without sacrificing quality: embellished horse prints. Using photos of your horse, she selects a base print—high-quality prints of her own paintings—in the color that best matches your horse, then customizes it by hand, adding markings, matching colors, etc.

She took these chestnut base prints and customized them to my Palomino gelding, Moose, and they’re spot-on. Right now, her base prints are stock horse builds, but the reception she’s received to this idea has been so positive that she’s hoping to branch out to other breed types in the future. This would be a lovely gift for barn owners, trainers, or dear horse friends that they’ll cherish for years to come.

Starting at $111 on artbywillow.com.

Horse Education Company – Hybrid Halters

Horse Education Company is another company I’ve loved for a while. My bulldozer of a Fjord has had a HEC hybrid halter for years and I love the extra control from the front knots paired with the ease of regular halter features for things like leading and tying. We upgraded this fall to the Classic Leather Hybrid Halter ($136) with a custom name plate and matching lead, and—unsurprisingly—found it brought the same level of extra control in a stunning leather look with impeccable craftsmanship. This will definitely be our going-out-into-the-world halter, and would make a great gift for anyone who likes the added control of a rope halter with the ease of a traditional one.

Starting at $45 on shop.horseeducation.com. 

The Original Muck Boot Company – Women’s Arctic Sport II

I’ve been a big fan of Muck Boots for years, and was in need of some new tall, insulated winter boots for working around the barn. These Arctic Sport II’s are really comfortable and very warm, and their neoprene is totally muck-resistant. They’re soft and flexible right out of the box, and the top has extra stretch (in really cute plaids) to hug your calf and keep out the cold. I went trick-or-treating in them (with my son the astronaut and Penelope the rocket ship) the day they arrived and they were so comfortable for our 1+ mile walk. Now we’re knee-deep (almost literally) in mud-season and these are my go-to for morning chores through night check. Put these on your own wish lists this year!

Staring at $135 (dependent on height) on muckbootcompany.com. 

Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians – Monthly Membership

A unique, useful gift for the best of your barn friends just might be a monthly membership to Kristen Kolenda Yoga for Equestrians. You get so much from membership, including a comprehensive video library with over 100 videos (with new content added regularly) sorted into categories and lengths to fit a variety of needs. The video library includes everything from 5-minute mini-sessions to 75-minute intensive studies into different skills and focuses. And there’s something for the very newest yogis to more advanced students. There are also options for online live classes and an active and supportive online community. This gift would be perfect for a friend who could use a little zen, or who would be interested in exploring how the practice of yoga could positively impact their riding.

Sign up for $35/month here.

Melissa and Doug Take-Along Show Horse Stable

This simple little barn, with its wooden stable and eight colorful steeds has been a favorite of my 4-year-old son since he received it two Christmases ago. The littlest of hands will love sliding ponies in and out of their stalls (when you turn them around, they can peer out the barn window). Slightly older kiddos will love more imaginative play. And with the realistic colors and coat patterns like palomino, Paint, gray, Appaloosa, and more, you, too, can have a toddler who knows the difference between a chestnut and a bay! This is also a great addition to the lounge of any barn that caters to little kids.

Shop for $41.99 (currently on sale for $21.99) on Amazon.

Kiel James Patrick – Highland Fox Sweater and More

I’d been eyeing these wool-blend fox sweaters from Kiel James Patrick, wondering whether they were worth the hype and the price tag. Turns out they are! They’re high quality, the colors are gorgeous, and the wool is so soft and warm. They’ve got several fox options (pullover and cardigan-style sweaters) as well as some adorable fox socks, and a children’s line that’s just adorable. Their entire collection is worth a look.

Shop on kieljamespatrick.com.

This article about Small Business Saturday equestrian shopping is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Think Outside the Gift Box

Inflation and increased cost of living is no joke, which makes it all the more important to be resourceful where gift-giving is concerned. When it comes to equestrians, you can never go wrong with a present you know they’ll use.

You could consider a gift of support, enrichment, or wellness. A friend on a tight budget may be lacking something just for herself these days. Additionally, personalized keepsake gifts are something that can be cherished for years.

Supportive Suggestions

Here are some ideas to get your creative gift-giving juices flowing:

◆ A gift card to a feed or tack store, or even a credit at a vet’s office or boarding facility. Every horse owner would appreciate these!

◆ If you’re on a budget, create a coupon book with clever ways to be of service, such as an offer to clean stalls, groom, or horse-sit so your equestrian friend can take a little time off.

◆ Meals are a great way to nourish and nurture, especially in the cooler months. Prepare some hearty, easy heat-up meals for the busy equestrian. A bowl of hot soup, stew, or a breakfast casserole are welcome after freezing winter barn chores. To bump it up a notch, a month (or more) membership for boxed meal deliveries—such as Blue Apron, Hello Fresh, or similar—can brighten someone’s winter menu and save them from having to plan meals and make trips to the grocery store. Hint: Most services offer a variety of options, such as vegetarian, family-friendly, lower-calorie, and quick prep.

◆ Horse owners work hard and enjoy pampering, such as a gift certificate for a massage, a restorative yoga class, or a spa day.

◆ Gift ideas for equestrian wellness could include a journal or an equestrian planner book to help with goals and/or intention-setting. Yoga sessions with an instructor who focuses on yoga for riders can also be supportive of physical and mental fitness.

◆ The gift of learning, such as a gift certificate to a horsemanship clinic, equine expo, or an online course is a unique way to give.

◆ Enrichment through travel and light adventure is another way to give creatively if you’re financially able. Fund or contribute to a retreat experience, a weekend at a dude ranch, or a getaway to an equestrian trade show.

◆ If tangible gifts are more your style, consider an equestrian book, a sturdy pair of warm barn boots, heated gloves, or maybe some fresh lead ropes and halters. Stocking stuffers could include inexpensive hand and boot warmers, or perhaps an insulated mug or reusable water bottle for the barn.

◆ Since most reading is done online these days, it can feel like a treat to get a subscription to an equestrian magazine. Receiving it by mail all year is a great reminder of your friendship.

◆ Personalized keepsakes can be very meaningful. Imagine how much you’d love a framed photograph or poster of your horse, or a professional painting or drawing. Picture books are easy to create online with platforms such as Shutterfly, and they make for a great coffee table book. After my heart horse passed, I was given a beautifully inscribed windchime to remind me of him every time it chimes—I just love it!

Give from the Heart

Gift-giving can be big or small. As long as it’s heart-centered, that’s all that matters. It’s important to stay true to your budget and not have the burden of paying off debt long after the holidays. Your family and genuine friends will understand. Remember, it’s OK to keep it simple, and your horsey friends will appreciate the sentiment.

Wishing you and your equines a beautiful holiday season!

This article about equestrian holiday gift ideas appeared in the November/December 2024 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Holiday Gift Ideas for Equestrians appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

On that first Saturday in December, Lebanon hosts over 100 parade entries, all of them pulled by equines, and over 100,000 visitors who flock in early to claim their spot to view the horses and carriages. There are two parade times: a daylight parade at 1 p.m. and a twinkle-light one at 7 p.m. The entire city gets into the spirit with entertainment, wagon rides, a living nativity, a craft and food fair, visits with Santa, happenings at the library and local churches, and more.

The parade features all sizes and breeds of equines, ranging from draft horses to Minis, as well as donkeys and mules, pulling a wide array of horse-drawn conveyances. All rigs must pass a pre-parade safety check and be accompanied by grooms walking alongside.

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The Humble Beginning of the Christmas Parade

Pat South, who was the Lebanon Chamber of Commerce president when the idea for a parade came up in the late 1980s, explains how it started.

“We wanted to establish some holiday events in beautiful downtown Lebanon to showcase the businesses around town and to entertain,” she says. “In 1988, we had a trial run, thinking that we liked the idea of horse-drawn carriages, and had a small event with maybe eight horses. The next year, we decided that we had hit on something and had our first official parade. We wanted it to be all horse-drawn carriages; we didn’t want any other types of entries. We had 15 or 20 units that first year and a crowd of maybe 15,000.”

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South credits city officials and local law enforcement for their wonderful support of the event and explains how the festival evolved into what it is today.

“The next few years, the spectator attendance climbed by 10,000 or more each year, and then at some point it jumped up to near 100,000 by 1992,” she says. “By [that point], our parade entries had climbed to near 40 and it just continued from there. The town picked up the theme of decorating with miniature white lights downtown, so at nightfall, it looked like glittery stars and glistening icicles. It was an instant success.”

Something for Everyone

Located in the rolling hills of southwestern Ohio about halfway between Dayton and Cincinnati, Lebanon’s streets are decked with holiday decorations on parade day. Festival visitors can check names off their holiday shopping lists at boutique shops and antique stores. Food vendors offer tempting treats, including peppermint frozen custard, hot chocolate, kettle corn and roasted almonds.

History buffs will delight in seeing the circa-1803 Golden Lamb Inn, which has hosted the likes of Charles Dickens and at least 12 U.S. presidents, and the Greek Revival-style Glendower Mansion, built in 1836, both swathed in full holiday garb.

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And what of Seuss’s Mr. Grinch, the curmudgeonly character who crept into Whoville to steal Christmas in the story? If parade goers look closely, they are likely to see him riding in one of the carriages along with cheerfully waving Santa and Mrs. Claus in another. It’s all part of the horsey holiday fun!

Planning Your Trip to the Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Christmas Festival

◆ The parade is free and open to the public, although reserved box seating near the viewing stand can be purchased.

◆ Local volunteers wearing green vests will be on duty for crowd control and to answer questions.

◆ Free public parking lots and on-street parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Some local businesses and charities offer prime pay-to-park spots as well.

◆ Make hotel and dining reservations well in advance of parade day.

◆ Arrive early for the best viewing opportunities. Bring chairs and blankets and dress for the weather.

◆ Download parking and parade route maps ahead of time here.

This article about the Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Christmas Festival appeared in the November/December 2022 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post The Magic of the Lebanon Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade & Christmas Festival appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Gifts for the Home

Hand-Painted Porcelain Ornaments by Equestrian Artist Larissa Ann

For that equestrian who has it all, check out these gorgeous, limited-edition ornaments from fine artist Larissa Ann. They’re hand-painted with over 20 layers of paint for a level of depth and detail that has to be seen to be truly appreciated. You’re going to want one for your own tree, as well. Shop here.

Tartan Blanket Company: Recycled Wool Blanket

When I was setting up my son’s nursery, I splurged on one of these blankets from the Tartan Blanket Company (female owned, Scotland-based), and these are now go-to gifts. They may not be outwardly-equine, but the rich colors and gorgeously-soft wool would be a welcome to any equestrian’s home. I went with the Buchanan Antique Tartan color, but be prepared to get lost in all of the gorgeous color palates and other gift options on their site.

River Wood Forest Equine Gifts

I’m a sucker for anything Fjord, so I fell in love with River Wood Forest’s Scandinavian Winter Fjord designs, though the Etsy shop has all sorts of whimsical nature and animal-inspired designs by artist Tina Schofield. (There’s also a gorgeous Christmas Friesian design, too – just go to the Etsy store and search “horse” for all of their horse-themed gifts!) From throws to tote bags to dish towels to sweatshirts and skirts, there’s an option for just about anyone on your shopping list. Check out the Etsy store here.

Danielle Demers Stationery and Gift Tags

Add some luxury to your gift-giving game, or dress up your own cards and presents this season with gorgeous foil-stamped cards and gift tags by artist Danielle Demers. (Take it up another level with coordinating wax seals in horse, fox, or rosette designs!) And while you’re on the site, check out her wallpaper and original prints — shop here.

Gifts for the Barn

Smokey Hollow Maple Co. Hand-Made Stall Signs

If you’re looking for a thoughtful, personalized gift, these handmade stall signs are beautifully crafted, and their high-quality materials and craftsmanship are made to last. I have them in my own barn and they spark regular compliments. The variety of wood, stain, size and font options allow you to customize to your heart’s delight. Order by December 1 for guaranteed holiday delivery. Shop here.

MOSS Saddle Soaps

These soaps smell amazing, and — made from the highest-quality natural ingredients including goat’s milk glycerin — they’re great for your tack, too. These are a great gift for barn owners, trainers, or barn friends, and they make great stocking stuffers for the equestrians under your own roof (grab one for your own stocking, too). Scent options: Citrus Basil, Vanilla Bean, Tea Rose, and Lavender (there’s not a wrong choice, but the Vanilla Bean smells good enough to eat!). Find them here.

Lucky Braids Shampoo

As the snowflakes start to fall, maybe your trainer or best barn buddy is just dreaming of show season. Lucky Braids is my professional-groom-friend’s favorite shampoo for manes, tails, and bodies. It’s highly concentrated, so a bottle lasts longer than a show season does, and it solves and protects against common skin issues. Grab this must-have for the tack trunk here.

Gifts for the Equestrian

R. Riveter “Take the Leap” Handbags (And More!)

Equestrian artist and military veteran Larissa Ann teamed up with R. Riveter, a women-owned handbag company founded by military spouses. The “Take the Leap” collection features equestrian-themed handbags, sweatshirts, hats, blankets, and pewter ornaments whose signature winged horse will inspire those you love to take the leap to follow their dreams. There’s something for everyone in this collection – it’s definitely worth a look this season! Shop here.

Kastel Denmark Cabernet Tonal Crown ¼ Zip

The rich tones, high-tech fabrics, and perfect amount of bling of this Kastel riding top make it a perfect gift this season. It’s a great layering piece for cooler temps, or a wear-alone top in the spring or fall (with 30+ SPF, too). The polyester/spandex blend is buttery-soft and the feminine fit is super flattering. And it’s got to be said — the high-tech antibacterial and odor resistant properties keep you as fresh as you can be when riding or working around the barn! Check it out here.

Plus, enter to win a “discipline-branded” version of this shirt during our 12 Days of Christmas!

Blue Ribbon Beauty Equestrian Cosmetics

One of my most put-together horse friends, Amanda, swears by Blue Ribbon makeup, a brand created by Rachel Lavelle for women who get stuff done but want to look good doing it. All products are paraben- and cruelty-free to make you feel good about what’s going on your skin. Plus, with fun names like “Latigo and Lace” and “In the Irons” and playful designs by Lavelle herself, anything from Blue Ribbon would make a great gift or stocking stuffer! Visit the website here.

“Awakening with Equines” Card Deck

From equine-partnered coach, healer, author, and speaker Kate Neligan comes a gift for spiritually-centered equestrians: her “Awakening with Equines” Card Deck. 40 unique cards feature images (by artist Nica Ware) and text highlighting the emotional intelligence qualities that Neligan has gathered through decades of experience studying horses and psychology. It’s a perfect gift for anyone who adores horses and wants to understand them better, is interested in personal growth, and is inspired by beautiful, equestrian art. Locally sourced, women-owned, and a recipient of the Winnie Award at the Equus Film Festival. Check it out here.

Gifts for Kids and Teens

Equus Bell Saddle Pad Block-Printing Kits

If you’re looking for a gift for a crafty horse-loving kid or teen, you have to check out these saddle pad printing kits made by Indian-American equestrian Roxanne Khan. Combining her love of horses and her Indian heritage, Equus Bella’s saddle pad kits come with everything needed to block-print a custom saddle pad. The cotton and bamboo pads themselves are crafted in India by a professional quilt-maker, and piped with colors that coordinate with the selected pattern. Hand-carved blocks (think “wooden stamps”), paints, brushes/sponges, and detailed instructions are included in the kit, and it’s easy to create a treasured, unique useful saddle pad. Four patterns are available to choose from currently, with more options coming for the holidays. Visit their website here.

This small business equestrian gift guide is a web exclusive for Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

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Stirrup Tray

You can never have enough serving trays or platters, especially for easy appetizers, cheese boards and individual desserts. The stirrup tray is a splurge-worthy lifetime piece.

DIY: If you want the look for less, consider arranging a pair of vintage irons in a similar fashion around a platter of your choice. Secondhand tack shops, eBay and local Facebook groups are a great place to search for well-loved tack to be repurposed around the home.
$192.00; stylishequestrian.com

Horse Napkin Jewels

‘Tis the season for entertaining and showing off your equestrian style. Add the perfect amount of glam to your table with these 24k gold-plated napkin holders. Your guests will love this whimsical and elegant horse design. These are a splurge-worthy table accessory you can cherish every time you host a party.

Décor Tip: Add pops of gold, silver or copper to elevate and add interest to your table. Decorate your table with old (clean!) horse bits, spurs and horseshoes to add more metal and a touch of elegance.
$195.00; bloomingdales.com

Horse Glass Ice Bucket

This timeless ice bucket with hand-cast equestrian pewter details by Vagabond House is ready to chill your favorite bottle of wine or champagne. An ice bucket this beautiful is truly a work of art.

DIY: Make a cocktail station by putting out a large punch bowl with a few bottles of chilled champagne, sprigs of rosemary, mint leaves and slices of citrus (bonus points for blood orange slices). Batch drinks and self-serve cocktail stations save you time and keeps guests entertained making creative drinks. Set up a cute bar area with a small table or use an existing bar cart from your home. Set out a few cocktail recipes (virgin and original versions) and wrap the table or cart with garland for a festive touch.
$319.00; wildlifewonders.com

Julie Wear Cheval Black Luncheon Plate

This chic luncheon plate features a sleek twist on snaffle bits with gold accents against a black background. They are hand-painted on porcelain and made in the United States; also available in brown.

Hostess Tip: Create individual name tags and plan the seating arrangements before your guests arrive. This makes sitting down to eat simple. Be mindful and sit guests where they will be comfortable.
$68.00; shopwhitedogwood.com

Horse Bit Appetizer Board

This simple wooden appetizer board features a single horse bit on the end. It’s perfect for a cheese board.

Cheese Board Tips: Putting together a great cheese board doesn’t have to be expensive; it just needs an assortment of small bites that complement one another. Try a minimum of three different cheeses, an assortment of meats, bread and/or crackers, nuts, fruits or jam, olives, and a savory spread (bruschetta, olive tapenade). Dried fruit, pickles, assorted chocolates and honey are also great additions to a cheese board.
$97.00; farmhousetack.com

Horse Figural Serving Set

Serve up savory side dishes with these pretty horse-head serving utensils. They are handcrafted in sand-cast aluminum by Arthur Court for durability that’s made to last. Pass these around the table for family-style serving that your guests are guaranteed to notice.
$52.00; arthurcourt.com

Highland Fox Hunt Cotton Napkins

Try a set of fox hunt cotton napkins and placemats for the ultimate matching look. Cloth napkins are environmentally friendly, easy to wash, and can be enjoyed year after year.

Style Tip: Arrange the table with red flowers and pine boughs or another greenery to bring out the red and green in these napkins. If you are adding candles for ambience, be sure to use unscented candles at the table; an overly sweet candle can ruin the dining experience.
$49.95; horseandhound.com

Highland Fox Hunt Placemats

Say “tally ho” with these vibrant red, white and green placemats displaying a familiar fox hunt scene. They appropriately feature Christmas colors to help create a festive place setting. A tablecloth can sometimes look too formal, and is risky if you have young kids running around—they pull down very easily. This is where placemats step in to class up the table.
$49.95; horseandhound.com

This article about horse holiday entertaining appeared in the November/December 2021 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Horse Holiday Entertaining appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Horsescents Organic Lavender Aromatherapy

Deliver calming organic lavender aromatherapy with this innovative scent pack (halter not included). Leather ScentStrap with lavender-filled ScentSac:
$85; www.horsescentsinc.com

Heritage Performance Glove

Jazz up training rides with stretchy super grip gloves in the newest shade of jade. $26.95; www.heritagegloves.com

Noble Equestrian Horseplay Backpack

If your motto is “work hard, play hard,” this barn bag is for you. Versatile backpack has a helmet compartment and crop holder, plus room for your laptop or tablet. $59.95; www.nobleequestrian.com

Hunt Seat Paper Company Pony Pins

Stocking stuffers that make a statement, for equestrians with attitude.
$10.50 each; www.huntseatpaperco.com

5 Star Equine Leather Coasters

Choose the color and pattern for a perfect gift. A custom brand can
also be added. Set of four starting at $20; www.5starequineproducts.com

Kerrits Warm Up Fleece Jacket

Sporty bomber-style jacket has cozy fleece inside, with smooth exterior to shed hay, dirt and horse hair. Generous zip pockets hold treats and more. Shown in Ash Blue. $99; www.kerrits.com

Back on Track Nights Collection

Rich color and elegant details are combined with therapeutic Welltex technology. Fleece blanket, $169. Saddle pad, $79. Coordinating fleece polo wraps (without Welltex), $41; www.backontrackproducts.com

5 Star Equine Handcrafted Mohair Halter

Enjoy retro rodeo style that’s handmade in the USA, featuring 100% all-natural mohair. Priced from $149.95; www.5starequineproducts.com

Professional’s Choice Boho Collection

Up your horse’s style game with matching gear in this limited edition print. Ballistic overreach bell boots, $31.95. VenTech Elite Sports Medicine boots, $93.95. Slow Feeder Hay Bag, $56.95. Tack Tote, $30.95. www.profchoice.com

This article on equestrian gift ideas originally appeared in the December 2019 issue of Horse Illustrated magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post Have a Very Horsey Holiday with These Equestrian Gift Ideas appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.

Instructions

Horse Valentine’s Day: Horsey Sugar Cookies

1. Combine butter and sugar in a bowl and beat until creamy and well-combined. You can use a stand mixer or a hand mixer for this part.
2. Add egg and vanilla extract and beat until completely combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients into wet until completely combined.
5. Transfer half of the dough onto a sheet of plastic cling wrap (dough will be quite sticky at this point, that’s OK!) and mold into a disk. Repeat with the remaining dough in another piece of cling wrap. Transfer dough to refrigerator and chill for at least 2-3 hours.
6. Once dough has finished chilling, preheat oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Dust a clean surface with flour and place one chilled cookie dough disk onto the surface. Lightly flour the dough and roll out to 1/8″ (for thinner, crispier cookies) or 1/4″ (for thicker, softer cookies). If the dough starts to stick, dust the surface and dough with more flour.
8. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer the cutouts to your baking sheets.
9. Bake for 9-10 minutes or until the edges begin to turn lightly golden brown.
10. Allow cookies to cool completely before moving and frosting.

Horse Valentine’s Day: Colorful Frosting

1. Combine sugar, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract and stir until combined. If frosting is too thick, add more milk. If you accidentally add too much milk, add more sugar until desired texture is reached.
2. To make different colors for horses and manes/tails, divide into several bowls and color as desired.
3. Transfer frosting to a piping bag with a piping tip, or place in a zip-top bag and snip a tiny piece of the corner off.
4. Pipe frosting onto the cookies. Start by making an outline and then fill in the center. Use a toothpick to gently spread frosting in to any areas you may have missed.
5. Allow frosting to harden for several hours before stacking.

Recipe inspired by Sugar Spun Sam Blog

Make Your Own Horse Valentines for Valentine’s Day

1. Find an image of a horse and print it out on cardstock; cut it out.
2. Carefully cut two slits between the legs (make sure not to cut all the way down to the bottom).
3. Place candy in bags and slide between the two slits.
4. Address your Valentines and pass out to all of your barn buddies!

Click here to download a template for your horsey valentine.

This article originally appeared in the January/February 2019 issue of Young Rider magazine. Click here to subscribe!

The post It’s a Horsey Valentine’s Day appeared first on Horse Illustrated Magazine.