Now THIS is dedication. Sheila Smart on Jambo in April!! Yes, April! As they say, you never know when it's going to snow in Big Sky country.

Of course you've heard of "The last best place"? Well if not, that's the monicker for Montana. Such a grand state deserves it's own web page - so here it is! Vicky Busch has had a long and wonderful relationship with this breathtaking and intriguing place along with it's incredible inhabitants; both equine and otherwise. Primarily teaching in Bozeman, she has always described these folks as having the warmest hearts in the coldest place.

Vicky's relationship with her great mentor and friend, Jill Hassler-Scoop is how she came to be involved with this special group of equestrians. When Jill could no longer continue her teaching because of the ravages of breast cancer, she asked Vicky to step in. This was a tremendous honor to be asked to "take care" of Jill's beloved Montana students. Since that time, the clinics have grown in popularity and fun. "Fun" being the most important aspect for learning in Jill's book. Since 2005, Vicky has visited Montana approximately every other month. She continues to truly love and enjoy every moment she is blessed to be there, carrying on as a steward for her beloved late friend.

Here is Vicky's beautiful friend and colleague, Sheila Smart with her best bud, Jambo. She has been such a joy to work with, a true professional with endless drive, talent and determination. She is also the person Vicky can thank over and over again for scheduling and organizing her clinics for all these years.

Testimonial from Sheila Smart: " To tell you about my relationship with Vicky, I have to begin with our common guiding light, Jill Hassler-Scoop. My life has been blessed and forever changed by Jill. From the first time I met her she began opening doors for me and truly gave my teaching and riding career direction. With all that Jill did for me I am most thankful for her giving me my current mentor and friend, Vicky Busch. For the past 5 years Vicky has taken me under her wing and guided me in my education.Her consistent and classical teaching has given me a training program to instill in all my horses and students. Jill always told me to look at what a trainer produces in their horses and students and how they progress. I can't think of one student who has committed to Vicky's program that has not made steady progress and experienced great successes.Vicky has helped me develop Jambo, my 12 year old thoroughbred, into the fabulous horse he has become today. Also, the experience in developing my feel while riding Vicky's horses in Louisiana has helped me to better understand where I am going with my own riding and training."

This is how we do it in Montana! Giddy with delight is Sheila Smart's young daughter Aspen at 2 years of age. She is aboard the priceless Speedy in his BIG trot. This emerging equestrian already has all the right stuff to follow in her talented mother's footsteps.

Montana students Christine Stagg on Indy and Lori Kascht with Rusty taking advantage of a glorious winter day at Tri-H.

There is a slightly different definition of "work" in Montana. Many people actually USE their horses to do just that. Here is Barb Marshall's husband and son driving the Fjords to pick up hay. Being towed behind is her lovely 3 year old Hanoverian Poppy, as she enjoys her starting process.