Oh what a night!

I had the most fun I've had in a long time tonight. My neighbor, Vicki, talked me into signing up for Ladies night at Trinity Equestrian Center. It was supposed to be a three hour event but turned into almost 4 hours. Normally, you get to catch your horse and bring him into the arena but it was soooo cold, they did that for us (thanks!). Then, according to your skills, you groom and tack your horse.

Mine was a QH named Louie. He was great--5 or 6 years old but gentle as they come. His only fault was he didn't like to get close to other horses and would pin his ears. Only once did he act out, but it was pretty mild. Vicki was on a very pretty palomino; her neighbor, Sherri, on a rose gray QH named Sterling. Woody and Wilson were a couple other horses being used.

Sarah was our instructor. She was awesome. We did a variety of maneuvers (stretches, trotting over posts, serpentine turns using legs only, turn on haunches, brushed up on etiquette and had a quiz. Then we rode bareback!!!! I've never done that before and it was wonderful. The horse's back is warm, your legs are free and knees relieved of stress. I was even trotting without holding onto his mane. Our riding session lasted almost 2 hours! One was just not enough. Afterward there were brownies and ice cream and coffee. It was warm in the arena and the lounge--not too cold at all.

We had the option to make Christmas cards but conversation became the primary follow-up event. We talked about our fears after various disasters, something most everyone could relate to.