The sun is high in the sky with a welcomed warm breeze. I can't wait to go for a trail ride to discover more of this dreamy place.
As I'm being introduced to my horse, a stunning black Appaloosa, I run my hands over his withers, stroking his mane; trying to bond with him before I mount.
"This is Shadow. He's a dream to ride." the older cowboy says. He holds Shadow by his reins, smiling broadly at me. His weathered face is unshaven but so very kind.
"He's a gorgeous boy." I coo, running my palm across Shadow's neck.
"Do you need the mounting block, Miss?"
"No, no...I'm fine." I put my foot in the stirrup and effortlessly manoeuvre my leg over, sitting comfortably onto the saddle. It feels good to be in the saddle, again after such a long time. The smell of leather and the hay in the stables are just so comforting.
"Your escort will be with you in a minute." the sweet old cowboy says.
"Aren't you taking me?"
He laughs loudly, "Lordy no, child! I'm far too old for that now. One of the young ones will take you."
"Am I the only one going out this afternoon?" I asked.
"It would appear so, Miss. I'm thinking that everyone wanted to be back before the barn dance tonight."
I frown; I still cannot believe that I managed to miss the morning ride. I look at the cheerful old cowboy. "I got up late this morning, so I missed the morning ride." I admitted to him and I still have remnants of my hangover to annoyingly remind me.
"Like I always say, little lady. If you miss the rising of the sun, ya gonna miss all the fun." he laughs.
"I'll try remembering that the next time I go to the local pub." I softly giggle.
"What did I say about riding with a hangover?" Lisa is relaxed, riding her golden palomino stallion behind me, looking really pleased with herself.
I screw up my face. "I don't have a hangover." I snap, a complete and utter lie, of course.
Lisa looks unimpressed with my answer. "Not anymore you don't...now, come on."
"Why, where are we going?" I ask.
"For a ride...I'm your guide today."
"Oh really?" The pitch of my voice just went ten octaves higher than normal. How the hell am I supposed to cope with being on my own with her? Damn it! Actually double damn it for good measure!
"You ready?" Lisa asks; her horse impatiently brings up its frisky hooves.
I stubbornly lift my head high. If anyone can rid me of this banging headache, it's Lisa.
"I sure am."
