I started a new job recently. It’s great and all, but sometimes I can’t help but sit at my desk and daydream about what I’d really rather be doing, if you know what I mean. And I always come back to two things: drinking wine and riding horses.

It’s crazy how much insight you can find in your childhood. Then again, it makes sense. It was a time where you didn’t think much, a time that took its own course, choices made unconsciously. Which are, I must say, the best choices. You liked what you liked, did what you did, no questions asked.

When I was younger, I was obsessed with Barbie, as seen by this post, and along with it came a fascination for horseback riding.

Barbie loved her horses. Many times, you can find Barbie in her computer games, books, movies, and more, tending to her horses and riding them at her ranch.

I’ve been on many a trail ride since then, and while it comes nowhere close to my true equestrian dreams, never underestimate the healing power of animals. Equine retreats exist for a reason! Horses have incredible healing powers, and so do the people who raise, care, and treasure these animals every single day.

I guess that just goes to show: Barbie really knows her stuff, doesn’t she?

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Obviously, trail rides and horseback riding are not always feasible. You might not live in the right area, rides are expensive, not to mention the obvious time constraints. So when I’m feeling wistful for a ride out on the open trail, I turn to these shows.

Heartland

A true classic! If there’s one show to watch about horses, it’s this one. So much heart, family, and love all in one show. There’s a reason it’s still going on strong (18 seasons as I write this. What?!). Though I will say, I do prefer seasons 1-5.

And yes, let me say it: Amy and Ty forever. The initial attraction. The slow burn. In a world where 8 episode shows are the norm, watching these two grow across multiple seasons was so refreshing and heartwarming. The character development with Ty is also one of my favorite arcs of the show. Not to mention the natural chemistry between not only Amber and Graham, but the characters themselves. The choices they make. The strength they give each other. How they are truly each others best friend. Yes, I can go on and on!

But it’s not just the romance. There are so many lovable side characters in this show. Grandpa Jack and Mallory are two of my favorites. And eventually, you grow to like even the most unlikable of characters.

The scenery is incredibly picturesque, soothing, comforting, and calming. I’ve seen people say this show has helped with their anxiety! Pretty crazy, right? Now I have the sudden urge to plan a trip to Alberta.

Free Rein

I actually watched Free Rein first before Heartland, and honestly find it to be an extremely underrated show on Netflix. The genre is definitely “tween” in the best way possible. Very reminiscent of Justice and Limited Too. Kind of the like the nostalgic, girly tween shows I watched growing up.

Anyway, the show focuses on Zoe, an American spending a summer at her British grandpa’s countryside home. She stumbles upon a horse, a riding school, a stable boy, and the rest is history.

An easy watch, definitely something I can put on without thinking too much. There are only 3 seasons, and 2 side movie specials.

I wasn’t too big of a fan of Gaby, and thought she had way too much screen time when there were much more interesting characters afoot. Why does it always happen like that?

On another note, like Amy and Ty, I also absolutely adore Zoe and Pin. Again, such amazing chemistry between the two.

BONUS: Barbie Horse Adventures Mystery Ride

A little known secret: this was what started it all. This is a sign for you to always remember what makes you excited, especially if it’s your childhood dreams.