Friday, August 2, 2013

Horseback Riding Lessons

Today the boys got to try Horseback Riding for the first time. We've been working on passing off Cub Scout belt loops during the summer and this experience would help Tyler receive his Horseback Riding Belt Loop, so he was very excited. 

Meet Guy, Tyler's horse for the day
Beautiful horse, right? He was such a great horse. Very patient and kind to Tyler. They bonded quite well. Tyler can't wait to see him again. Tyler learned how to care for and prepare Guy for their ride. First you brush his hair and shine up his coat
Next you scrape out their horse shoes and give the horse their daily pedicure.
Then you saddle up for the ride. Make sure it's on their nice and tight.
Last minute instructions on how to walk him out to the ring. I love this new sport the boys tried today. It has taught them to be compassionate towards animals and how to care and nurture them. It has taught them to be gentle and kind and to walk quietly in the stalls. Not an easy task for a bunch if hyper boys. It has also instilled a great love and desire for hard work and the joys of being on a ranch. 

Now for the middles. Trevor and Spencer got to take riding lessons today as well. They both got to take care of Doodles, the cutest little pony I've ever seen. It was very surprising to see the quite, gentle work they did with their pony. Considering these two are pistols most of the time. They were very dedicated and great listeners as they were taught how to brush and clean Doodles shoes. It brought out a great side to these boys that I as their Mother appreciated. They loved it!

Tyler's turn to ride 
Then Spencer's turn
And then Trevor
The boys each learned the voice commands for going and stopping. They each learned how to Post and how to ride on their own. Tyler was doing so well, it just came natural to him. His instructor decided to teach him how to gallop. He did awesome!
Can't forget about this little Cowpoke. He got to ride the pony back into the stalls. He just can't get any cuter. 
Now that lessons are over and the horses are put away, it's time to give the horse and pony a treat for being good. Apples it was! Watch out for those little fingers boys, they're a little excited!
I don't think this will be the last time we visit. The boys absolutely loved this experience. Now if they can just work with our budget then we can continue on. Three boys can be expensive to do anything these days. The boys are also excited to render their service to the ranch as a thank you for the discounted lessons. 
See ya next time, Guy!!!

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