Meeting Mr. Horse

One of my favorite things about having grown up in the country is the open space. Think Dixie Chicks Wide Open Spaces (which I may or may not be listening to on repeat while writing this and reminiscing to high school and track bus rides and friendships that have grown and changed and strengthened since).

But anyways, some days I long for the ability to run around freely, get dressed without having to close the blinds, and generally not feel like anyone is all up in my business, all the time. I just want me and fresh air and an open skyline.

That's why I get such a kick out of going back to Mama and Papa H's house with the boys and watching my PDG run around.  The last time I was home he awoke from his nap, opened the blinds and exclaimed "park!" judging by the mere fact that there was so much green grass calling for him to come explore.  

Over spring break we took a trip as spring was just starting to ease its way into Virginia.  MDG took a nap at home with his grandparents and PDG and I ventured down the road a bit.  We crossed the stream, passed my uncle's house, and walked up to the fence where some neighbors now keep their two horses. 

The goal was just to point and giggle and say "neigh" before walking back home. PDG has gotten pretty into animal noises of late. Instead, one horse trotted right on over to see what we were up to.  And let's face it, he was probably hoping for a carrot.

We had nothing to offer but a few pats on the head, and he accepted.  His nose, with nostrils the size of PDG's head, sniffed us and snorted as he patiently let us admire his brown coat and strong body.  PDG was brave-ish.  He wanted to be near the horse, but petting him apparently crossed the line.  After getting our fill, we turned for home, and "Mr. Horse" as I so creatively had named him, turned back towards his less ambitious horse friend across the pasture.

So when we ventured home for The Bloom a couple weeks later, we of course had to check out Mr. Horse again.  And bring MDG along too.  And document with photos.

Maybe someday it will make sense to live just a Sunday morning stroll away from horses again. We'll just have to convince J-Man...