RJ & Nik Rapelje


Morgan Horses
Horses

Ranger
Ranger

Rock
Rock

Splash
Splash

Carlene
Carlene


Spring 2010

Summer 2009

Christmas 2008


December 2011

Just when you think you're on a smooth road, life throws some unexpected detours in your path.

I left my job with the Texas State Auditor's Office in Austin due to health issues, and am currently unemployed. Thankfully, RJ accepted a full-time position with McCoy's Building Supply at the same time, so we were able to avoid having a break in insurance coverage and other benefits. We dropped our dog and cat off with my parents, rented a small apartment in the lovely town of Georgetown (just north of Austin) and RJ started work at the local McCoy's store in June. His time was divided in roughly half for several months, with two weeks working in Georgetown followed by two weeks of training at headquarters in San Marcos. We were able to stay with my parents while he was in San Marcos, and enjoyed riding the horses and working on my parents' property while we were there. RJ completed McCoy's Management Training Program in November 2011 and continues to work in Georgetown until he gets a permanent store assignment.

Nik & RJ riding, 3/6/11

Nik riding Rogue, RJ on Pepper, 3/6/11

In October, I was thrilled to help my parents' sell one of their mares to a wonderful home with Dreams Come True Morgan Farm in nearby Bulverde. Bella is now known as "Izzie" and is adored by their riding students. She is thriving and blissfully happy, and we have new friends to ride with. In a serendipitous turn of events, I was able to help out a Morgan breeder who was struggling financially by taking a yearling cremello filly. Fairy (BNWD Forbidden Affair) is smart, beautiful and athletic, and I'm absolutely thrilled with her. In an odd connection, Fairy's dam is Bella's "niece".

Fairy and Nik, 11/27/11

Fairy and Nik, 11/27/11

My father had major back surgery in late November, so I spent several weeks taking care of my parents' animals and property while Dad was in the hospital and then recovering. It was nice to be able to help and it let me spend extra time with Fairy. I'm still searching for a job, but can do that from anywhere thanks to a laptop.

It feels like we're "waiting" right now since we don't know where or when RJ will be assigned to a new store, but we're trying to enjoy the time and opportunities we have, seeing where the road will take us next.

Always,
Nik


RJ & Nik Rapelje

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