Erica Braymen -- October 27, 2007

Well after a wonderful four years, I'm bidding farewell to the model horse hobby.  I was hoping it wouldn't come to this, but life goes on, and some things must fall aside to make room for new pursuits and passions.

In the past year I've become deeply involved in writing, and am taking steps towards becoming a published author.  This has become the biggest and most consuming part of my life; not only am I seeking out editors, publishers, and agents, but I'm writing articles, short stories, and poems on the side, and plan to start my next novel-length project this November.

I'm also beginning my junior year of high school--a very busy time of SATs, honors, and college preparations.  With a full schedule of classes, tutoring other people, participating in ASB, and keeping up with homework, school has also taken a large chunk out of my available time.  Because life in general is a good deal better for me this year, I've really thrown myself into a lot of things in the school community, and am trying, in a way, to make up for not doing much with myself before.

On top of those two things, I have an aging horse who requires care, attention, and maintenance; friends and family to spend time with; and artwork both on and off the computer.  My life has become quite a frenzy, but it's an enjoyable one, and I'm settling into it happily.

However, with all these changes, something had to give, and that something was my activity in the hobby.  I haven't done much customizing as of late, and it's become more of a time-consuming activity than a fruitful one.  Showing has also become difficult, with no opportunities to take part in either live or photo shows.  I now have a large amount of models just sitting on my shelves--customizing bodies and show stock alike--and I know some of them deserve better.

Over the next month or so I hope to sell off most of my collection, excluding, of course, those few special models that still mean a great deal to me.  My time in the hobby has been a gift and a blessing, and I wouldn't give it up for anything--the hours I spent trying to perfect a certain photo, the long stretches of panic before a live show, and the elation of seeing a creature of my own creation sitting on the table beside a little scrap of ribbon.  It's been a wonderful journey, and whether I return or not, I won't forget this hobby or the people who made it worthwhile.

I'll still be active on my forum, Flying Change, and anyone who wishes to check up on me can do so there or at my main email, erica@equusrising.net

Thank you again to everyone who touched my life over the last few years, whether critiquing my customs, doing business with me, or just offering some friendly advice.  Thank you for making this experience meaningful for me.  It's been amazing, it truly has.