"She likes it, hey Mikey"

Today was another gorgeous day and of course, my other commitments kept me from getting out to the stables until late. I think that is the biggest challenge for us horse owners-finding the time for our critters. And why is it that those of us who are the busiest have not one, but TWO horses? Actually, I'm much more fortunate than most because I spend only 16 to 20 hours at my "real" job and the rest of my time is available to my real passion-horses. Oh yeah, and my family and friends. They understand though, the addiction, and have yet to sit me down for an INTERVENTION, but it's been close in the past.

When I finally made it out to the stable, my friends were already saddled up and riding and I still had cleaning, feeding and grooming to do. I couldn't resist though, and so grabbed ol Sal Gal and took her to the arena with no tack and just decided to jump on her bareback. Okay, so I used a step to get on her back. I don't think I've EVER just jumped up on her or any horse's back. I know Linda Parelli recently demonstrated jumping on a horse by getting them to lower their head and neck and using that to jump up-good for her-still not going to happen!!

Sal was already feeling better on her new "light" food and wanted to trot around with me holding her mane, hoping she'd remembered all those days long ago when we worked on bridleless riding when she was feeling less achey and arthritic (turns out all of those years of wearing heartbar shoes with toes pointing down and constant concussion of her back legs, had created damage to her hock joints). She moved out pretty well and my friends were impressed when she pinned her ears as she passed their horses. Sal has a reputation for being the sweetest horse in the barn. They've only seen the Sal, post founder, hock arthritis, looking older and harmless. But when she's feeling well, she can move out faster than any horse in the barn (it must be the Arab in her, matched with her long legs) and if you're not ready for it, she'll take you back to the barn in an instant.

Back at the barn Sal was more than ready for her evening portion of beet pulp with the great tasting feed that was now part of her dinner. Both her and Chanty have quickly decided that beet pulp alone for breakfast just doesn't cut it. Sal actually left the entire pan untouched this morning, but was thrilled when I sprinkled a little low starch feed on it. I'm so happy she likes it....

The days are shorter now and after arriving at the barn so late, it was already time to go. Tomorrow is supposed to be another cool, sunny day, so more riding outside. I thought about hooking up the trailer and hauling out to the park at the Columbia River but I may need to get home a little early tomorrow and help the hubby with his project. As long as I get to ride my girls ....