Loping

I actually took a break from writing the other morning and went riding with my husband. Cold, muddy winter morning; thank goodness for an indoor arena where we board. My husband wore his leather hat to tack up which makes me smile coz he looks like a sweet cowboy. (We ride helmets on the horses.)

I rode Quincy (see his photo in right sidebar) and my husband, bless his heart, rode Wixie, who he has been riding a lot lately because she has been acting up.

At first, I just walked Quincy, then I trotted. So far so good. Then it was time to push him a little more. I took a deep breath and kicked him into a lope. He kept trotting, until he finally slowed to a stop.

I really wanted him to go, and yet I didn't want him to. I don't like going fast on horses, on anything. I don't like roller coasters. I'm the merry-go-round type.

But today is a good day to lope because there are no other riders other than my husband. Okay, another try. I kicked him, and he still wouldn't respond. Finally, I dug in with my heels (my son rides him with spurs). Don't give up, my husband said. This time, Quincy raised his head, and then he loped.

It's a rush, to be on the back of a horse that is flying through the air. It is nothing like a merry-go-round ride, but I see why my husband and kids love it. When I stay on, feeling in control, it feels great.

I did it! I did it!