The Apricot Door

I went out there for the horses.
The wild ones. The kind that make you feel small in the best possible way… like you’ve stepped into something ancient and untouched.

And they were everything I imagine, powerful, raw, honest.
No filters. No performance. Just presence.

But what I didn’t expect…
was her.

Diana Palmer

Somehow, in a meadow full of these breathtaking, untamed beings… she’s the one who stopped me in my tracks.

We sat at a worn wooden table in the middle of all that green, and she began to speak. Not just about the horses, but to them, through her understanding of them. Translating a language I didn’t even know existed. Every movement, every glance, every shift in energy… suddenly it all meant something.

And just like that, I wasn’t just watching horses anymore.
I was seeing them.

But more than that… I was seeing her.

Over 40 years out there.
Day in, day out.
A woman holding space, protecting, observing, learning, loving… without needing recognition, without needing applause.

The kind of strength that doesn’t announce itself,
it just is.

I found myself watching her as much as the horses… hanging on every word, every story, every piece of history she carries in her bones. The kind of wisdom you don’t read in books, you earn it, slowly, over a lifetime of showing up.

I went out there thinking this was about crossing something off my list…
“The year of the fire horse,” I told myself.
Time to learn. Time to try. Time to ride.

But this… this was something else.

This lit something in me I don’t even have words for yet.

A reminder that there are still people out there living deeply, purposefully, in rhythm with something real.
That there are still places where time slows down enough for you to actually feel it.

And maybe that’s the real magic.

Not just the horses
but the ones who choose to dedicate their lives to them.

Thank you, Diana…
for letting me step into your world, even just for a moment.

I won’t forget it.

🦴 Got toys?
Shelter pups need enrichment toys!
📍 9925 Rosedale Highway
🚪 Apricot Door

✨ The Quest Begins ✨

This Friday, Brittany and I are setting out on a little fairytale journey through Bakersfield in search of local businesses with a bit of magic to spare…

Our creative teams are ready, the vision is clear, and now we’re gathering the details that turn ideas into something unforgettable. We’re searching for thrifted treasures, costume magic, craft curiosities, and repurposed gems to help bring Once Upon a Runway to life in support of Kern Down Syndrome Network.

If you know a business we should visit or one we absolutely must meet — tag them below 👇
Every great story starts with a brave first step…

✨ March 21 | Legends
🎟️ Tickets on sale now

This is Katie. 🌼
She was my friend Lindsey’s dad’s constant companion, his shadow, his comfort, and his best girl. Through ordinary days and hard ones, Katie was there…steady, loyal, and full of love.
As Lindsey prepares to lay her dad to rest this Saturday, we’re trying to do right by the one who loved him so fiercely.
Katie is 5 years old, fully vaccinated, house trained, and an A+ cuddler. She loves walks, closeness, and being near her person. She does best in a home without cats, and honestly? She’s hoping for a single male human who might also be looking for the lady of his life. (She’s loyal like that.)

If you or someone you know might be the right match, please share this. Even if you’re not her person, sharing helps us find the one who is.
Let’s make sure this good girl’s next chapter is as loving as the last. 🤍🐾

✨ Once Upon a Runway… ✨
A fairytale comes to life where confidence sparkles, individuality shines, and every story matters 👑💫
We’re so excited to invite stylists, makeup artists, wardrobe & costume designers, and creatives of all kinds to be part of Once Upon a Runway—an immersive runway experience celebrating the brilliance and beauty of individuals with Down syndrome 💛💙
📖 Creative Partner Interest Meeting
🗓 January 12, 2026
⏰ 5:00 PM
📍 New Life Church
👗 Main Event
🗓 March 21, 2026
📍 Legends Event Center
Whether you love fashion, artistry, storytelling, or simply believe everyone deserves their moment to shine—this is your invitation to help create something truly magical ✨🪄
Scan the QR code or visit kerndsn.org to learn more and join the story 🤍
👑 Because every fairytale deserves a runway.

Just me and my girls in our cute lil fur coats ✨
I’ve always known hair assisting is a short-term gig, but somehow I get so attached every single time. So thankful for these smart, kind, hilarious humans who make my days better and my job lighter. Truly the best energy this season in the salon. 🫶🎄Thank you.