Every now and then, in spite of the craziness of life, one simply has to hit the trail. Last Monday that is just what I did. Lindy called me and simply wanted to get out of town, hit the trail and see what happened. As busy as I've been, as frantic as life has seemed the trail and the desert called to me and I could not resist the invitation.
Last week our normally clear azure blue skies were laden with clouds. What a rare treat for those of us that live in the desert! This morning, the clouds threatened rain. Instead of the Pullman saddle I normally ride, I grabbed the synthetic one because I could have cared less if it got soaked. Max stepped right up into the trailer and away we went.
The skies above us threatened rain and I could see the downpour off in the distance.
Max seemed to be pleased to be out as well and I have to admire this sweet Peruvian Paso/Quarter cross gelding. He really is a good horse and we're fortunate to have him in our herd. As we waited for Lindy and Kim to arrive both Max and I relaxed under the gray skies as drizzle steadily fell.
Once on the trail, Kim called out 'Tarantula!' and for the first time since I've been riding out here in the desert I've had my first encounter with one. The tarantula was on the edge of the trail and seemed surprised to see our mounts.
In response to our presence, the fierce spider (as big as the spread of my hands,) reared back on this hind legs, and struck his most threatening pose. Threat acknowledged, accepted and admired.
We rode off with a nod to this big boy and were thrilled to have seen him. Lindy and I always love these encounters and are happy to see the natural wildlife in our beautiful desert. The ride was long and peaceful even though we were actually lost for a portion of the ride.
These moments in time simply settle my soul.
And lastly.... here is the barn progress at the end of day two:
Maybe the horses will be home for my birthday..... what a perfect present that would be!
So glad you got out and enjoyed yourself and the area, not an easy endeavor in the summer, for sure!
Ha! Everyone feels so bad for me here because the weather has cooled drastically and we've had some much needed rain. I'm like, "I LOVE the rain, bring it on!"
I love tarantulas and don't see near enough of them!
Posted by: cyndi | September 15, 2010 at 12:27 PM
Here's hoping that the horses will be home for your birthday. :) Good for you getting out and enjoying yourself - sounds like you deserved it.
Posted by: morningbrayfarm | September 16, 2010 at 06:08 AM