65 Degrees and Sunny

I'm late to the computer today.  It's Saturday, 65 degrees, and sunny in NW Arkansas - the most perfect trail riding weather we get all year.  On the first ride of the day, we had 12 (!) horse and rider pairs.  My boarding stable offers guided trail rides on horses owned by the farm, and we boarders are welcome on any and all rides.  Most of the 12 (that's a significant number, yes?) were the farm regulars who make up my tribe: Susan, Angie, Melissa, Megan, Charlie, Amaia, Nancy.  We are a most diverse bunch, drawn together by a shared passion for horses. I'm the Sr. citizen of the group, and can so clearly see my teenage self in the young riders who are building their skills. I usually bring up the rear, and often get a catch in my throat that must be a rush of gratitude as I look down the line of friends and animals that bring me such joy.

We ride a serpentine of trails on city park land.  It takes us by a lake, a pier, and a waterfall.  Today, we were able to cross the White River over to an island populated with native bamboo.  Hence its nickname - Bamboozle.  In a couple of weeks, we will ride up the hill onto Bamboozle and it will be carpeted with purple flowers - possibly some variety of vinca.  It's breathtaking.  I wish I could share it with all of you.  Just close your eyes and imagine the most beautiful shade of deep periwinkle blue you can dream up.

The horses are scruffy and out of shape (as are the riders!).  Their hair is long, so when they get hot underneath, it curls and all their cowlicks show. We have had rain on top of rain on top of rain, so they've been rolling in the mud and ick.  They seem grateful to have their hooves cleaned and their backs scratched.  The filth migrates from the horse to me, and I'm weirdly thankful for the chance to care for a large beast that lives outdoors all the time.

I've had my sweet palomino quarter horse mare, Flash, for 22 years.  She's 25.  I can feel how she's going to move before she does it.  The slightest shift of weight, a sigh, her head perking up to pick up a sound or scent that my human senses cannot register.  I am as comfortable on her back as I am with my feet on the ground.  What a singular blessing for me to have had this kind of kinship with a horse over these many years.  She's strong and healthy, so I hope for a few more good years.  My granddaughter is learning to ride on her - be still my heart!  I can't think of anything I'd rather share with this beloved little girl, who shows all signs of making a terrific cowgirl.  She will enjoy a week of horse camp at the farm this summer, and will begin to build her own band of horsey friends.  I can hardly wait.  Thank you, God, that I can share my love of horses with my Sadie.  Bless the children who recognize their deep passions early in life.  Enable the development of their skills and surround them with caretakers who support their dreams.  I was so blessed.