A to Z Challenge: “H”orsing around

Horses are amazing creatures!

I’ve ridden horses when I was younger in Colorado, while I was at Girl Scout camp or up in Estes Park with my aunt and cousins. I’ve mainly ridden them on trails in the mountains, which is a beautiful experience and very fulfilling, at least until the horse senses that he’s almost home and it’s feeding time. Then I usually lose all control and end up galloping to the barn, feeling lucky to stay atop said amazing creature! My fellow riding partners would be impressed with my equine prowess if it weren’t for the scared look on my face as I dismount.

You may have heard the term that horses can smell fear or “let the horse know who is boss.” I’m not necessarily fearful of horses although they seem taller in real life, are exceptionally strong and could throw me or step on me at any time. I think they are beautiful animals but I respect their moodiness. And, I’ve never met a horse that was convinced I was boss. I went to my friend’s daughter’s barn to visit her horses and as soon as I was given the reigns, the horse was off, walking wherever it wanted to go. I could have been invisible. It also could be that I talk to horses in a child-like voice. What? It works for dogs and cats!

My friend, Lilly, and I took English riding lessons so when we traveled to Italy, we could go horseback riding. Especially since we were staying at Il Paretaio, the top riding stable in the Tuscany valley. I’d like to go on record as stating that I do prefer Western saddles. They are more substantial and sturdy for my type of bottom. Just sayin’!

We took quite a few lessons and I felt comfortable when we left the states. I won’t go into all the furry details but I did get to ride an Italian horse English-style, for a few acres. Most people measure their routes in miles, but since mine was short-lived, acres seem more fitting. It was either the fact that I was heavier than some riders or the fact that I wasn’t posting properly or that the horse smelled my fear, and became anxious. We were no sooner on the trail then my horse became jittery of anything that moved in the grass, which made me a nervous wreck. The horse and I had a quick conversation and decided to return to the barn.

Lilly completed the ride and had a wonderful time. I enjoyed the rest of my time petting the horses and taking photos around the grounds. I couldn’t complain – I was in Italy for goodness sake. It was gorgeous. I still love horses, and still have a healthy respect for them. And, believe me, I know who is boss!