Finding the right trick and a secret

This is evidence of a gentle conversation between two sweet dispositions that are in a little conflict. 

After riding Toby/Cobie for the last month, Lynn figured out that if she holds the rein tight over his neck, he will stand still for her to get on. Sometimes it takes a minute for him to realize she wants him to stand next to her, but it is becoming much easier and quicker for her to get on (most times). 

We are still battling smoke, but we have gotten to ride at least once a weekend. Toby/Cobie nuzzles her and really loves on her. He is such a nice boy. She is loving riding him--he walks out and never slows down. Jupes is huffing and puffing to keep up. She says he sees everything and shies a little and really looks at things, but doesn't slow down. She says he is comfortable and smooth. Last weekend there was a small puddle that gave them a little trouble, so Jupes and I stood in it until Toby finally came and put his toe in. 

It is hunting season and we ran into someone we knew who was out setting up a place to target shoot with his son, so he waited for us to get quite a ways away to begin shooting and we headed for home. On the way, Lynn suddenly took a detour. We followed and found the secret pond she has spoken about often. We did some booney crashing and suddenly there it was. It is definitely a watering hole for a lot of wildlife. We need to make very sure that we do not leave tracks or the motorcyclists will tear it up and ruin it for the animals. We also need to protect it from the hunters. It hurts my heart to think of how destructive people are. It is such a special place as well a necessary, life-giving spot for the animals that live on the mountain.

On a funny note, Toby was definitely antsy. He was NOT going to get in it. :) Jupes just sniffed and smelled it everywhere. The roots and logs were worn down and the trails to it were smooth and well used. He was checking out exactly who had been there. Ziva surprised me by getting in it and having a drink. 

We have been blessed to do a little riding each weekend when so much of California and Oregon are on fire. The virus and the smoke from all the fires makes all our lives stressful and getting out to be on horseback, with my favorite boy, with my bestie and my dog and her bestie, makes my life so much more bearable! It reminds me to be thankful for all I have.