We have had two wonderful rides this weekend. The weather is extraordinary – warmer than it was in July. We are so happy to have been able to take advantage of this and get out into the woods on Saturday and Sunday. Both Dee and Red were well behaved. They seem really settled at the moment – content and well.
Yesterday we rode back from Coed y Wenallt along the road again, but this turned out to be a tense experience from the bottom of Rhiwbina Hill to Wenallt Road. The last time we rode this way was a Sunday and there was very little traffic. We had forgotten that it would be so much busier on a Saturday. Dee was really very good for a horse that tends to be nervous. She spooked at a bus's air brakes, and at a car engine suddenly revving behind her (why are some car drivers so stupid about horses?), but otherwise kept to a steady walk. We do not think we shall ride down that particular stretch of road on a Saturday again however.
Today we were joined on our ride by one of the other horse owners at the yard, on her nine year old mare. This meant that we rode a little farther, and at times a little faster, than usual. Red seemed a bit confused at first about having another horse with us, and was reluctant to step out for the first part of the ride. He wanted to be behind Dee, but then kept getting too close, or tried to be beside her when it was too narrow for two horses. It was surprising to see him less confident that usual. Sandy – the mare – and her owner were considerate that we were not used to riding fast, but as we started up the track into Fforest Fawr it was clear that Sandy wanted a canter, so we let them go for it. It was great to experience Dee stretching and cantering at a free and enthusiastic pace. Usually when we canter I take the lead as 'ö-Dzin is a little uncertain still about cantering, but at the front Dee's canter is stilted. It was lovely to just relax and enjoy her enjoyment. Red was also quite lively about it and we all had an exhilarating spurt to the top of the hill.
5 comments:
Sounds like you all had a wonderful ride.
What a lovely way to spend the day! Here's hoping you get some more of that lovely weather.
Souonds like a wonderful ride, except for the ignorant driver!
I'm so glad that the horses are happy - I always wish that I could go riding with you when you describe these trails - maybe someday I will!
Thank you all for your comments. Victoria I would love to ride out with you. Who knows maybe we will manage to meet up one day.
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