Living and loving life.

River is settling into his new home beautifully. A friend and co-worker, Brittney, encouraged me to consider boarding River at her barn. She has two horses, Jack and Toby, who both enjoy trails. The moment River entered his new pasture he and Jack (Brittney's older Quarter horse) became instant buddies. It warmed both of our hearts as Jack has always been a bit of a loaner and River is low-man in the pecking order of the herd.

Another blessing of boarding with Brittney is that Hannah has the opportunity to ride Jack which allows the three of us to ride the trails together. Our first time out was last Sunday afternoon and it was also the first ride I'd had on River on actual trails. Everyone had a blast, horses and humans! It was a "pinch me" afternoon as I had a hard time believing that my dream of having my own horse...of riding with Hannah...and friends...has finally come true.

River is a super-star on the trails. He has a lot of energy but is controllable and he is very "looky" without being a spook. He genuinely enjoys going out and discovering new things, which is exactly what I want in a horse.

That first ride was followed up two days later with another ride out with Brittney and Toby. The horses get along great and we enjoyed trotting out side-by-side for an extended distance and then we gave the boys a good workout by trotting up a long, steep hill. Poor River was quick tuckered out after our ride.

I have started sacking River out to all kinds of objects and sounds. He is cautious without being a loon and very curious and quick to accept new things. It is alot of fun working with him and I will attempt to take him out on the trail solo this coming week.