Riding Across The Landscape

Stefan turned out to be a really dedicated student of horsemanship and it has been all I can do to keep him satisfied with the amount of time he gets in the saddle. First he had to learn balance and an independent seat. Then he had to learn to use the reins.

We made a video of his first week:


Since that time, he has turned into a good rider. He floats along (as long as his horse is relaxed) like a centaur. But, the truth be told, he did get bucked off once by that rascal, Cracker Joe, who has many notches on his belt for all the neophytes he has put in the dust. I told Stefan he couldn't be a good rider until he is bucked off 7 times. He has something to aspire to.

One of his goals was to "ride across the landscape". We managed a short ride at the Devil Springs Ranch on some of the bombproof ranch horses, and today we are riding from our place back to Devil Springs on muleback. That's 20 miles across the landscape! His dream come true for sure. I will be riding Cracker Joe, Stephan will ride Chester. Jane will bring two horses from Devil Springs, one of which Jerri will ride.

Will post photos. Meanwhile I have a few chores to finish this morning since I got up early to feed the steeds. By the way, the donkeys are back home, but we couldn't find Paisley.... maybe I will tell that story later...