Group Horseback Riding

What a beautiful time of year to go horseback riding - no flys or sweltering heat.  Neighbor George had a Trail Ride Extravaganza this year and I wanted to make sure I got some photos even though I missed out on the ride itself.

Misty and Jerry on matching buckskins, Mike on Peaches, Steve on Lakoda, and Jared bringing up the rear on Waco.

(photo courtesy of Neighbor George)

Saturday, October 31, 2009:   It's so great to have access to trails right in our own backyard. George was good enough to volunteer Lakoda for me and swore they'd put me UP on him and take me OFF. Lakoda is probably the steadiest of all, but it's still a matter of what could happen in between. It was SO tempting though. Next year for sure!

 I managed to get some shots after everyone came back.  The guys were just finishing up bathing the horses when I arrived. 

Here's Lakoda drying off.

And Mike finishing off his little mare, Peaches.  She's only 4.  Combination Paso Fino/Quarter horse.

A pretty little BLM mustang.

And a downright irritable looking herd after all was said and done.

So next year, Major and I are going to give it a try ... with a little help from good neighbors.

Sunday, November 1, 2009:  Everyone was off for the big trail ride over at Andy Guest Shenandoah River State Park in Bentonville,VA this morning. There were about 15 riders in all.  Some decided not to show up due to the rains we had early this morning.  The park borders the Shenandoah River and has some really nice views.  Since I didn't make it, George is going to let me use some of the shots he took today.  You can find more information about the park by going to www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/and.shtml.

(Here are some of George's shots of the trailride.)

Steve holding Shiloh, and here's Neighbor George (middle) with his son Jared (right) who just turned 16.

Breaktime.  This part looks pretty easy to me.

Even the wooded trails seem manageable.

Trailriders Denise and Dorothy.  Looks like so much fun.  Thanks George for the photos!

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So, I'm waiting back at the ranch ... No mishaps that I know of.  It looked like everyone had a great time.

 

Here's the old gentleman of the herd, Lakoda.  They just finished unloading him.  Looks like he's anxious to get back to the barn.

Isn't it about time to eat?

Horses come first. 

I must not forget ... Neighbor Tammy (George's wife) layed out a terrific spread.  She's such a good cook!