Ensign Ranch

Today I was able to go on a trail ride and it was heavenly! Even though we just walked in a single file line the whole time, it felt so good to be in the saddle again. We spent the day over in Cle Elum at Ensign Ranch and it was great to be around the horses. The horse I rode was named Angel and he was perfect. I could have done without the western saddle and all the dust being kicked up from the horses in front of me, but I wasn't going to complain since I was actually riding a horse again. I can't believe it's been a year since Ben passed away and how much my life has changed since then. Having a baby sure puts things on hold! I sure hope that I'll be able to ride a little more consistently now, even if it's just trail-riding. I sure miss how relaxing it is and having some "Me Time."

Jeff took these photos of me after we got back from our ride since we weren't allowed to bring camera on the trail ride with us.

Angel was a nice and hefty Quarter Horse. He felt so much bigger than Ben, but maybe it's just because it's been so long since I've ridden. I sure hope I'm not too sore tomorrow!

He was such a good boy I made sure to give him lots of pats and loves afterwards. Can you tell I miss riding??? Just a little bit??? Ahhh, hopefully I'll be back at it again soon!!!

We Sure Love Our Ponies!

Today we went over to visit the ponies. The boys had a great time riding Jena. She sure is a special little pony and we love her so much. I'm always so pleased with how tolerant she is of the boys despite their exuberance and our inconsistency in riding and spending time with her.

I can't believe how much the boys are growing up and it really puts things into perspective when they stand next to Jena who has reached her maximum height years ago. Hyrum loves Jena so much and is sad that he is outgrowing her. He did a great job handling her as he led Jonah around. She is actually better behaved when the boys work with her than when I do. I think it's because they are more her size and she doesn't feel as intimidated.

Hyrum will have to start riding Cisco soon. I feel bad that we haven't spent much time with him in the past year besides brushing him. He could use the exercise since according to the vet he's an 8/9 for body condition. Maybe we should start calling him Mr. Chubs! To me he doesn't look that fat, just out of shape. Last month I tried to put my dressage saddle on him in hopes that I might be able to take him on a little trail ride, but he freaked out and wanted nothing to do with it. He likes being ridden bareback, but I'm not sure I'm up for that quite yet. So I'll have to think more about what to try next. Here's hoping I'll be able to ride him at least once before the summer is over.

Too bad I couldn't get him to prick his ears forward in this photo. At least the rest of him looks good!