Now Hack It Out (now hack it out)

You’re welcome for getting that song stuck in your head.

Just a brief update today on our show prep!

One of the lovely ammies at the barn suggested a trail ride this weekend, and I eagerly jumped up and down with my hand in the air and yelled PICK ME PICK ME. Turns out it wasn’t a contest, just an open invitation. But I got to go on the trail ride so who’s the real winner here?

Anywho.

We were out for a solid hour on trails by the barn that I had NO idea existed. Like zero clue. Big hills, through the woods, across hay fields, it was stunningly gorgeous. I would’ve taken some more pictures, but I am a trail riding weenie and don’t like letting go of the reins when I don’t have walls holding me in.

But in all seriousness, Francis was his usual lovely self- he poked around on the buckle the whole time with his usual sweet curiosity. He thought the deer leaping out were super cool, he dolphin-leapt up some bigass hills and then came right back to me, and loped around a hay field with his buddy Moose. We were both sweaty and tired by the end of our ride and I think it was EXACTLY what we needed. A good workout that was a great mental refresher!

Frankie LOVES his best buddy Moose. They’re turnout buddies and inseparable. They also had matching hats. I am also scared of the sun and will cover up from head to toe in 90 degree weather.

He got some TLC afterwards and lots of grazing time. My saddle came back and he seems SUPER happy with it- he offered up some great engagement over his back with very little urging from me (I basically picked up a light contact and he rounded and stepped under). I’m hoping this means he’s happy with the saddle fit, but we have the rep coming out before the show to watch us go and confirm.

Mister Piggy wanted to eat 5ever

I spent time polishing up my boots and prepping some gear, and then today will be the final preparations: all tack will get deep cleaned, I’ll pack up and lock my trunk so it’s ready to be loaded on the trailer, and Francis will get his own deep cleaning. He’ll probably roll in the mud tonight, but I at least have to say I tried.

Because your boots aren’t REALLY polished until you’ve tried to set them on fire.

More updates as events warrant!