Feeling the Luc love!
That’s what I’ve been trying to make my motto of late. Things have been a whole lot of hectic in my day-to-day life and I’ve felt a little overwhelmed. So overwhelmed in fact that this weekend I wasn’t even sure I felt like riding. It was just one of those days where all I wanted to do was stay in bed and sleep. But since hiding under the covers isn’t exactly the best way to cheer yourself up, I dragged myself out of bed and off to the barn.
Once again, I was reminded just how lucky I am to have a horse like Luc in my life. Seeing his big goofy face immediately put a smile on my face, and I couldn’t help but giggle a little as he searched me from head to toe for treats, of which I had none. Even without the lure of food, Luc was still happy to see me. That’s the beauty of an animal’s unconditional love. It really is a gift to treasure.
Already feeling oodles better, I continued to cuddle with Luc while Jen, his owner and my sister, tacked him up. I brought him into the arena and followed our regular routine of walking him a few times around the ring in each direction before mounting up. Instead of being tense and distracted, Luc was relaxed and happy. It seems his good mood was contagious, because I was feeling pretty darn happy now myself.
After getting settled in the saddle, it was time to get down to work. Luc was willing and attentive, but there was one downside to him being relaxed in the arena instead of the tense rocket ship I’ve been riding most of the winter. Boy oh boy was he lazy! Still fighting off a bit of a cold, my breathing still isn’t fully back to normal, and let me tell you I was huffing and puffing after only a few times around the ring in each direction at the trot.
I pushed through it and worked on some serpentines and extended trot before picking up the canter. While still not as relaxed as in the walk and trot, Luc has come such a long way. He was happy to canter forward, at least most of the way around the ring. Heading toward the door he was still a bit uptight.
About twice around in each direction and I was completely wiped. I can’t wait until I’m finally over this cold! But Luc saved the best part of the ride for last. I got nickers when I got off. How could I not be feeling 100 times happier after that?
