When Robin Keitser moved to Bridgewater just a year ago, she quickly discovered what she loves most about her new home: the sense of community. That feeling extends to both her human and four-legged family.

Robin grew up in MS but had lived in Texas for 30 years. "I moved back home to be near family after my husband passed away. My brother, his wife, children and grandchildren all live here," she said. "I love being back home." After living here a few months, Robin met her fiance, neighbor Steven Goodman. "He would bring my trash can back to my garage on trash day," Robin shared. She didn’t know who was doing it but it was a pleasant surprise. "Monkey Umplett had given him my contact info so I knew he must be a nice guy." It turned out they had a lot of common interests and backgrounds. Steven invited Robin to dinner, and the two have been a couple ever since. A few months later, Steven proposed, and they are thinking about a spring wedding. 

Robin not only shares her life with Steven, but also her chosen daughter and horse trainer, Chelsea Landes, three energetic dogs, and seven beloved horses. Horses, in fact, are the heart of Robin’s story.

Unlike many riders who grow up in the saddle, Robin’s equestrian journey began at age 50, when she gifted herself her very first horse. “I didn’t even start jumping until four years ago,” she recalls. Since then, she has built an impressive collection of horses and competed at some of the country’s most celebrated facilities, from Chicago and Denver to Memphis, Houston, and North Carolina’s famed Tryon International Equestrian Center.

Despite her achievements, Robin is most proud of her willingness to face her fears. “I have a healthy dose of anxiety, especially when showing,” she admitted. “But I do it anyway. It’s empowering.”

Her advice for young riders is simple: start early, but don’t lose sight of the joy. “Remember, it’s supposed to be fun,” she said. “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself.” She also stresses the importance of finding the right guidance: “The best thing I ever did was find Chelsea, a trainer who always puts me and the horses first.”

For Robin, horseback riding is more than a sport—it’s proof that courage, determination, and a supportive community can make dreams possible at any age.