ALWAYS THE LITTLE THINGS!

The little rain drops

Way back when, I used to work for a software design firm.  It's uniqueness was embedded in their research - they watched folks while they worked, recording every step as they used a piece of technology or software.  It was the little steps, the tiny gestures and the stuff to minute to remember that were important and it is all remembered in the very moment...

In addition to our handwalking,  three of the days I am permitted to walk Sugar, under saddle, for no more than 20 minutes.  Sugar is not quite sound (almost but not quite) and the tendon injury is 80% healed.  We're getting there... 

A little bit of color as fall fades

Tonight, alone in the indoor, we were serenaded by a pack of coyotes howling and yipping nearby.  They were so close, I expected them to come in to check us out.  Sugar was not impressed and continued her quiet march around and around the arena.

If you asked me what I missed most about riding, I may have said something like, "I miss the connection between her body and my hands."  Or maybe, "The rhythm and power of her trot."  And all sorts of riding stuff...

But, what I really, really missed was our post ride ritual.  I slide her bridle off, careful to not bang the bit against her teeth.  Then with cupped hands, I wipe the foam off her outstretched muzzle and scratch her head and ears finishing with kiss on that kissable nose.

Tonight, for the first time in 6 weeks, I wiped, scratched and kissed.  I believe my Lil' Pinto Pony was as happy as I was...  Life is indeed... very, very good!