Today we ride

In May, Seth and I celebrated our twenty third anniversary. Usually we commemorate the occasion with a weekend mountain getaway, but like everything else this year, that was cancelled.

Last year, we spent out twenty second anniversary in a tiny house located just a few steps off the main drag in downtown Manitou Springs. 

The exterior was fun and funky, with chickens,

visiting deer...

and a hobbit door.

The inside was cozy and comfortable.

We really enjoyed staying there.

We also enjoyed the local attractions. These included Manitou Springs,

Cave of the Winds...

and Garden of the Gods.

Garden of the Gods is a public park and National Natural Landmark located in nearby Colorado Springs.

The park is famous for its red, pink and white rock formations and is a popular destination for climbers, hikers, bikers and horseback riders.

On this particular trip, Seth and I were hikers.

And that was fine because we both like hiking.

I like riding more, however, so I was immediately intrigued when we saw this group of riders near the park store.

It looked like a guided tour, so I asked a store employee for more information. She didn't know much, but she was able to confirm that it was possible to rent a horse and ride in the park.

Of course, I needed details, so Seth and I decided to walk to the stable.

It was kind of a long walk, but like I said, we both like hiking.

Finally, we reached our destination.

There were lots of horses to ride, but none that could be ridden without a reservation. I was disappointed but not surprised. As we headed back to our tiny house, I vowed to return at a later date.

About a month ago, the Colorado hobby group started discussing safe options for a get together. I floated the idea of a Garden of the Gods trail ride, and initially, there was a lot of interest. We chose a date, and then things got complicated. We chose another date - today! - and I booked my ride. Unfortunately, I was one of the only people to so. It seems our big group ride just isn't meant to be. I was very disappointed by that and thought about cancelling my reservation. Then I remembered all the other things I've cancelled this year. It's a long list. 2020 has taken so much, but it doesn't have to take my Garden of the Gods ride.

Today I'm driving to Colorado Springs to ride a horse in the Garden of the Gods. I can't wait.