That costs how much? Horse expenses vs. the adult amateur rider

It's no secret that horses are expensive - board, routine vet bills, farriers, tack, feed, blankets, lessons and let's not even talk about that time your horse managed hurt out in the pasture meaning you had to call the vet out ASAP! (Can't we just turn them out in bubble wrap?) Or, if you don't have your own horse, lessons can quickly add up each month depending on the number of times per week you ride. Not to mention the time it takes to fit this all into a busy adult life....time equals money, people!

Now, if you add showing to the equation - stabling fees, grooming, class/division entries, transportation (for you and your horse!), trainer fees, oh and don't forget you have to eat - can drastically increase costs depending on the type of show (local vs. rated) and duration of the circuit. 

The blog How I Measure My Life in Horse Costs from HorseChannel.com is a relatable look at how most adult amateurs weigh their options of purchasing something for themselves versus what it could buy for their horse/showing calendar. 

No morning lattes. No new clothes until 2018. That car will have to keep running for at least five more years. But it's all worth it to spend a weekend at the horse show!

What are some ways you weigh normal expenses versus horse and showing costs?