I am a city girl. I grew up in a city. I lived in a huge apartment building. I took a taxi, walked and took public transportation to school (depending on my mood). I love concrete, art museums, and being surrounded by people who don't know me and don't want to. Really, I do.
But there is something out here in the mountains of West Virginia that I love too. The clean, mountain air at 3000 feet makes it easy for me to do things that I struggle with at home. Like hike, sit outside and enjoy the breeze, or ride a horse.
Yes, I am riding a fucking horse! And I like it! I started for the kids, of course. Sydney Beth and Jonny love to ride, and it's good for them. The stables here are awesome, and the lady who runs the joint treats my kids like her own. I don't have to worry about a disinterested teenager being in charge. Because of my allergies, I still can't wallow about in the barn, and I'm not too disappointed about that. But I can ride, and I like it! And by golly, I think I'm getting good at it.
I love sitting tall on the saddle and watching the scenery. I love being in the back of a trail ride and watching my kids gain skills and independence as they ride. I love working on my posture, talking to the horse, arguing with the horse. Yes, I love a horse with a little bit of sass. Some things don't change.
Last week, I was riding up a hill with the kids and the guide. My cell phone fell out of pocket (county mouse rule: cell phones go in the front pocket). I stopped the horse, got off the horse, got the phone, and got back on that horse! All by my damn self! I was so proud of myself I nearly burst. And the kids could hardly stand it.
I celebrated that evening by catching a toad for the kids to look at before setting him free again. I screamed the whole time, but I caught that motherfucker. Smores and a campfire were to follow.
Don't tell anyone though, I have a rep to protect.
No comments:
Post a Comment