Saturday, September 1, 2012

Eagle Crest - a little horsing around

We decided that this year Carter was old enough to try horse back riding during our trip to Eagle Crest.  As a child, Kyle looked forward to his ride each year and was always a highlight of his time there.  Thankfully the stables offered pony rides for Kennedy, so she didn't feel left out.  They were both very excited at the prospect but were a little nervous once we got there.
Getting ready for her ride

We had a lovely cowboy, Jose, who took great care of the kids.  He was kind and soft spoken and had been riding horses his whole life.

Up in the saddle and ready to ride

Kennedy got to ride Princess, a 37 year old mare
She was slow and tired and perfect for our little one.

This kid holding the rope was a doll, he told us all about the horse and was very sweet with Kennedy

Kennedy and Daddy watching Carter

Almost his turn

Carter rode Rocky, a gentle horse who was used to being lead.
As he got on his horse, he looked and me and said, "Mama, I don't think I want to do this any more."  Sorry, Buddy, it's a little late.  I tried to encourage and reassure him.

Our guide, Jose, helped Carter along and kept him close. 

For the first half of the ride, Jose held onto the rope attached to Carter's horse.  He asked a few times if Carter would like to ride on his own and each time Carter answered no.  Then, about half way into our ride, Carter asked to go solo.  I was so proud of him.  He was very brave and very serious about riding correctly.

It had been quite some time since I had been on a horse and it was a lot of fun.  I rode Cayenne, who liked to rub up against trees.  Super.

All smiles!
Our horses trotted for a few steps as we arrived in the pasture, and Carter thought it was the coolest.

What a fun adventure!

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