54 + 1 week

After my birthday riding plans were snowed out, I was ready to move on and forget that day had ever happened. My barn buddies did not feel the same. They were adamant that we needed to mark the occasion so we rescheduled for the following Wednesday.

And then it snowed. Again.

Therese and I saddled up anyway.

At first, we were going to ride in the indoor arena, but then - somehow - we talked ourselves into trying the trail instead.

It was really cold and really snowy, but also really beautiful.

Olive wanted to stop and look at everything.

Thunder got a little bit impatient with all the stopping. Fortunately, Therese had the foresight to bring him lots of treats.

Once we got past all the scary stuff, Olive pushed her way to the front.

I got to see those trees between her oversized ears.

We even did a little bit of trotting!

Despite - or perhaps, because of - the weather, I could not imagine a more perfect birthday ride.

After the ride, I met Mary Jo and Karen for drinks and lunch at our favorite post-ride restaurant.

This was such a fun day. Thank you, Therese, Mary Jo and Karen. I can't wait to do it again next year!