Paradise

I went riding for the first time in almost two weeks last night, and I had the same reaction I always have when I relax into the familiar seat of a leather saddle after some time away from it. Shock.

Shock at the fact that I haven't gone completely insane not going riding in such a long time. There's something about riding a horse that just makes me feel absolutely at peace with myself and my life. Any problems or worries I'm having - work or personal - they all become irrelevant when I get in the saddle. They fade away and don't even cross my mind until I'm back at the barn and the tack is off my horse.

This view is what we call Windy Point, overlooking the Thompson river, and I was quick enough to get this shot while Cedar stared out at the view. She's a pretty observant horse, and this was only her second time being at Windy Point, so it all looks new and exciting to her. This is just one out of so many gorgeous view points we have around our property, and I don't think I'll ever stop appreciating any of them.

I'm aware of how cheesy it all sounds, but it's such an incredible feeling that only horseback riders will understand I guess. I've been riding (western) practically ever since I could sit up, and I don't think I'll ever stop getting that feeling of perfect and simplistic peacefulness when I'm on a horse.