Hazel Belle may have crossed the rainbow bridge, but she lived every day to its fullest.

Here are some life lessons she shared during the time we were fortunate enough to be in her world.

Make Friends That Are Different Than You

Your friends don’t have to look like you, act like you, or even be anything like you. I spent hours with cats, horses, and people. And  yet, many of them understood me better than other dogs.

You Don’t Have to be Loud

Sometimes, the most interesting creatures don’t make a lot of noise.  I found that when I DID make noise, everyone came running. Sure, it usually involved a sandhill crane in the pasture, but everyone knew SOMETHING was up.

Help Whoever You Can, Whenever You Can

While I never got my PHD in psychology, I could see when someone was having a tough day. The best thing to do was to sit with them in the lounge. Sometimes, I got to lean into them and share ‘Hazelness’ with them up close.

I also guided patterns in the arena by not being in the way, and kept people warm for hours by sitting in their laps.

Whatever you can do to help, just do it.

Embrace the Outdoors

People like to complain about the weather in Wisconsin, but there’s always something to enjoy. One of my favorite people, Tracy, told me, ‘There’s no bad weather, just poor clothing choices.’

Disclaimer: I've been to her house for play dates and pool parties. Her dog Rosie is a good friend.

So, my mom always dressed me for the elements so I could enjoy snow, wind or rain. I was even allowed to be naked and sleep on the toasty pavement in the summer.

You can’t change the weather, and there’s always something to enjoy.

Get Your Rest

I noticed that you horse people have to work. A lot.

Be sure to get your naps in. You’ll feel a lot better for it.

Be Happy and Entertaining

My mom Carol taught me tricks so I could be the life of the party in center ring. I earned a lot of mints, and had a lot of opportunities to have my butt scratched. (My wardrobe sometimes got itchy.)

I developed strong tail muscles from wagging, and I hope you all develop your smiling muscles.

Cheer For Everyone

I’ve been to a lot of horse shows, and I love them.

At horse shows, and everyday, remember to cheer for everyone. It’s tough out there, especially if you don’t have a boxer dog to make you smile all the time.

Spend time With Kids

Kids are my favorite.

Best days  ever? Summer camp days!

I couldn't get out of the house fast enough to greet the campers.

They're honest, they're fun, and everything is new to them. Enjoy their laughing, games, and love of life everyday.

And, they let me take naps with them.

Be grateful.

Appreciate your people.

Team Knollwood is full of friends who gave me years of happiness. Scott and Carol are the best, and Scott’s lap is the perfect place to spend an evening. Walks with Carol and Izzy are perfection.

Be grateful for the outdoors, your friends, the horses and pets in your life. Most of all, be grateful for the memories you have that will always make you smile and remember.

Memories are Forever.

Coming Up?

Knollwood Show Updates

• Gift basket donations are due Wednesday, October 15
• Show bags are available for pick up in the school barn lounge.
• We're still looking for help at the concession stand. Please help here.

Mane Event Horse Show: October 15-18

• The show horses are headed to the Illinois State Fairgrounds
• The show features the first of the 'Big Three' equitation finals, the Good Hands.
• We'll update webcast info shortly.

IASPHA Show:  October 25-26

• 19 Academy riders are making the trip
• We're traveling to Beyond Stable Farm in Woodstock, IL
• It's our last academy show of the season. Please join us!

Halloween On Horseback:  Friday, October 31

• It's a sell out, and everyone is invited to watch
• Please feel free to wear a costume to watch the fun
• Costume creation can begin at 5:00 PM, Lessons will continue until 6:00 PM

Academy Parent Meeting: Saturday, November 8

• Parents are invited to join our informational meeting at 5:00 PM
• You'll learn why we love academy showing so much, and what it has to offer the rider in your home.
• Please sign up in the school barn lounge, so we know how many folders to prepare.

UPHA National Championship American Royal Horse Show  November 10-15

• The show horses will be competing for National Championships and in the UPHA and USEF Equitation Finals.
• We'll update with webcasting info when it's available.

Knockout Holiday Party and Officer Election: December 13

• All Knockouts and their families are invited to join our annual party, and election of club officers for 2026.
• Not yet a member? We'd love to have you. Please talk to your instructor or admin to join the adventures.

Knockout Award Banquet:  January 31, 2026

• Knockout members and families, please save the date!
• We'll gather at the Legend at Merrill Hills to celebrate 2025 and take a peek into 2026.
• All Knockout members will receive invitations after the holidays.
• You really don't want to miss this!

See you soon at the barn, or at the in-gate!