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Just Us Two

JoAnn Shannon

Updated: Sep 13, 2024

Recently, I rediscovered the absolute joy of riding alone.

Lessons are great for learning. Riding with a friend is great for conversation. But there’s a deeper connection with my horse when it’s just the two of us.

At the mounting block, Captain pauses to look around. “Isn’t anyone else joining us?” he seems to be asking.

I pat him on the neck to reassure him, and he steps forward. He does check out the curves of the arena to make sure nothing suspicious is lingering. With his ears perked up, he takes a moment to listen that all the sounds are familiar. I tell him that everything is okay. His neck relaxes, and his back becomes supple.

We take the opportunity to practice things that need work. Captain knows exactly how to get deep into the corners – but he resists to help me build a stronger leg. We practice transitions. Captain knows exactly how to move from a walk to a canter – but he’d like to see a more consistent effort on my part. While we work, the connection between us grows stronger.

Before dismounting, I reach down the length of his mane and give him a squeeze. His honest, sweet, horsey smell makes me smile. Captain seems to be smiling too. Or is he just glad it’s carrot time.



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© 2024 by JoAnn Shannon.

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