The beginning

When I booked my North Carolina riding vacation, I had no idea it would be coming on the heels of a long, difficult trip to California. When go day arrived, I was not ready to say goodbye to my family again. I spent most of the morning fussing over my animals and taking a ridiculous number of "me and you" selfies.

Eventually, however, I packed my bag and went to the airport. The flight to Raleigh was smooth and uneventful.

Rachel picked me up curbside in her big flatbed truck. It was so good to finally meet her in person. The conversation was as easy as it was lively as we made the two hour drive to Uwharrie National Forest, where Rachel, her daughters and a few of their friends were camping that weekend.

It was late and rainy when we arrived. The campfire festivities were just breaking up. Some quick introductions were made, and I peeked at the horses, who were hanging out in a temporary pen behind Rachel's trailer.

Then we all headed in for the night.

After a surprisingly good sleep, I woke up the next morning and got a better look at my surroundings. Everything was so green and pretty! 

Rachel made breakfast for everyone.

Yum!

Then it was time to saddle up.

My mount was Rachel's good Appaloosa mare, Pebbles. 

The rest of the group arrived. We mounted up and set out.

After a short stretch on the road, we ducked into the trees.

And just like that, my North Carolina riding vacation began in earnest!