Once in a while riding is a pleasure, not just another chance to work on this or that technique, which is boring and often does not succeed.
Saturday I took Champagne out on the trails all by myself (which I admit can be hazardous, but I took my cell phone) and it was really fun.
I only met one other person, a mountain biker who came up behind us, shouted ahead to me, and asked if he should walk his bike as he passed us. I accepted and moved Champagne off the trail. After the guy passed, Champagne was like, “Can we go with him? Can we catch up?” He was calm and steady, and not at all afraid.
The day was coolish with bright sunshine. A nice little breeze was ruffling the leaves, and some trees were showering yellow leaflets. Champagne came home with a leaf stuck under his saddle blanket! The woods have already begun opening up: the low underbrush and ferns have sunk toward the earth, and I could see further into the clearings. Champagne alerted a few times, but I never saw deer.
He went willingly up the pipeline hill that he always pretends he can’t climb, and even trotted near the top. No spooking, and very polite, responsive behavior.
The trail back to the barn climbs and dips through tall white pines, and the footing is sand and pine needles, pleasant and aromatic.
I admit I did practice a bit of the “rubber donut elbow” thing that I’ve been learning in the arena . . . keeping the reins shorter and my arms at my sides, but using a flexible elbow to follow the movement of his head as he walks. This can only be done if the horse is stepping right along, but he was, so I did. Another notch in my ridership, I guess.
Anyway, a stress-free ride. I am back in love with my fine fellow.
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