Horseback Riding

In our quest to try new things and help our kids learn their interests, we signed the kids up for horseback riding lessons. This wonderful ranch has a variety of horses for all ages and ability levels. The best part is just how well cared for and trained the horses are, especially with kids. After meeting the instructors, the kids went to get the horses from the field.

The instructor handed the lead to Sweet Daughter and told her to lead him. Sweet Daughter was thrilled. I was a little concerned. This isn't just a large dog, this thing is huge compared to her! The horse followed perfectly and Sweet Daughter looked so proud.

This is the first time Sweet Son met "his" horse. His horse is one of the most unique looking horses I have ever seen, but they were a perfect match personality wise.

Having already seen Sweet Daughter do this, I was more prepared when Sweet Son took the lead.

Before riding, the kids have to get the horse ready. They brush, gather the supplies, and get them ready to ride. Here Sweet Daughter is bringing the saddle pad to put on the horse.

Sweet Son is brushing the horse out and learning to be comfortable with his horse.

Carrying the saddle seems easy, but when it weighs almost as much as you do, it takes a lot of focus and control.

They are ready to ride. Once again they hand the kids the lead and tell them to lead the horse over to the ramp so they can get on.

It's amazing how much pride the kids feel when they are given such important responsibility. I knew they would like the horses and I figured they would like riding, but I didn't realize just how important this part is for them. Come back tomorrow for a continuation of this lesson. (Yes, I take a ton of photos.)