Good ending

The week between Christmas and New Years is always a weird one, but especially so this year. Seth and his brother are in Texas, preparing their parents' home for sale. James and I are here, but we've both been working a lot, and our schedules are opposite. I've barely seen him, and because it's been cold and icy, I haven't spent a lot of time with Olive either. Aside from an occasional bareback toodle, she hasn't been ridden in weeks.

None of that is surprising. Like I said, this usually a weird - and cold - week.

But today, is the last day of the year, and I wanted to do better. 

So this morning, I braved the cold and joined Karen, Diana and Laura on a snowy trail ride.

Almost right off the bat, we crossed paths with an aggressively obnoxious cyclist with a big dog in tow. We asked him to slow down, and instead of doing so, he sped up and started yelling. "I know more about horses than you ever will," he shouted as he zoomed past Olive. She laid her ears back and scooted a little, but kept her cool. Good pony. 

The rest of the ride was uneventful. 

There were some stop and stare moments - there always are - but overall, Olive was her best self; cheerful, sure footed and steady.

I'm so lucky to have her.

I am so lucky to have these friends.

Post ride meal and libations were also excellent.

This has been a tough year, but it did have some good moments. Today was one of them. Here's looking forward to a easier 2024.