A Perfect Ride

"There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man." My grandfather used to use this quote when we were horseback riding when I was a child. Some of my very best childhood memories are on the back of my pony, Nugget. Nugget was a sorrel with a flaxen mane. He didn't have a superior bloodline, and he wasn't a show pony, but he was the best thing to ever happen to me as a child. Horseback riding was the one activity my dad would take the time to do with me individually, and I thought it was the greatest thing ever. It turns out, it was. 

I haven't been on the back of a horse for almost twenty years. I often think how wonderful it would be to have horses again, but to be honest, we don't have the time to dedicate to their proper care. If a horse is standing around, not being ridden or worked, it is neglected unless the horse is retired. We had a retired pony for several years, and she was a joy. However, I would like to have horses we could ride together and enjoy. Once I retire, that dream will come true. My grandfather was correct, the outside of a horse is indeed good for the inside of a man.  

While The Bean and I were in Gettysburg, my daring, outgoing girl wanted to see the battlefields on horseback. I researched and found a reputable riding service. I am huge on the kind, ethical treatment of animals, so just going to any fly-by-night riding service that uses animals for profit would not sit well with me. Yes, we have goats and use their milk for our business, but we treat our goats with care, kindness, and the same attentiveness we give our family pets. We love our goats, and they are family. The Gettysburg Horse Tour Company at the youth camp feels the same way about their horses. Their horses were very well cared for; many of them were fatties. I like to see fat animals; it means they are well fed and loved. The riding instructors spent 20 minutes demonstrating how to treat the animals with kindness, how to ride them with the horse's comfort as the primary focus, and how to ensure the horse remained safe and comfortable throughout the entire ride. The instructors also periodically stopped to check that the tack was correctly positioned and that everything was in order with each horse. This practice sat well with me. 

In talking with the trail leaders, I found out that the horses are retired on the farm, or a few are re-homed if they don't enjoy being trail horses. However, the horses are never sold at auction, and the adopters are heavily vetted. This also made me feel I had made a sound and ethical decision in choosing stables. The ladies who run this organization are committed horse lovers who take excellent care of their horses. 

The ride we chose was a two-hour ride across fields, woods, and battlefields. I can honestly say, dear reader, it was the best day I have had in a very long time. It was relaxing; my horse, Disney, was a delight; the scenery was beautiful; and the experience made me realize just how much I enjoy horseback riding. Horseback riding is a lot like riding a bike. After just a few minutes in the saddle, everything I have learned over the years came back to me. My posture improved, my heels were down, and I even remembered how to lace the reins through my fingers for the gentlest control. The Bean also enjoyed herself immensely. I turned around periodically, and she was intently listening to the battlefield guide who spoke into a headset. I, however, turned off my headset after about 20 minutes. First, I simply wanted to enjoy the ride. Secondly, I don't enjoy having someone speak into my ear. The next time we go to Gettysburg —and yes, we are planning to return soon —we will sign up for a scenic ride rather than a historical one. 

The Bean noticed how comfortable I looked while riding, and how relaxed and happy I appeared. She commented, "Mom, you looked like you really enjoyed yourself." You have no idea, baby girl. It made me feel like a kid again. I am happy to say that I wasn't even sore after my two-hour ride. The Bean, however, declared her "butt bone" hurt the next day. My grandfather was absolutely correct in his saying about horses and men. Now, I must convince one bib over all wearing nay-sayer we all need a horse to enjoy. I have my work cut out for me. Sigh. 

On this lovely October day, stay safe, be smart, enjoy activities that make you feel great, and keep washing your hands.