I hummed while I curried Charm. Charm's eyes were half closed, and she looked really relaxed. I moved onto the body brush and Charm nickered sleepily. Once I had Charm brushed down, I moved to the hoof pick. I reached behind Charm's foot, putting her hand on the hoof wall.
"Up," I commanded.
Charm lifted her foot and allowed me to pick out her hooves. I tied a quick release knot on the bars on the stall, and went to go get a saddle pad. I walked over to Charm and put the saddle pad on along with the saddle, then took her halter off, clipping it around her neck, and finally, slipping the bit into her mouth.
I slipped her ears into the crest and pulled out her white forelock. I walked her around, leading her by the reins, making sure I tightened the girth and adjusted the stirrups. I led Charm over to the mounting block and swung into the saddle with ease, sitting for a moment to make sure Charm wasn't going to shy or buck.
When Charm was quiet, I urged her into a walk by squeezing her lightly.
Wow, her walk is smooth! Let's try the trot..
I squeezed my legs tightly and clucked, and Charm bounced into a showy trot. I was awed.
"Now the canter.." I mumbled to myself. I squeezed, kicked, and clucked, and Charm picked up speed and began rocking in a comfy canter. After a few laps around the arena, I pulled back gently but firmly, making contact with Charm's mouth, telling her to slow to a trot.
I kicked my feet our of the stirrups and loosened the reins, cooling her off. I walked her in wide, lazy circles, petting her neck and praising her. When I felt that she was cooled down, I halted her and dismounted, grasping her lead rope, I led her to the stables, feeling happier than I've felt in a while.
YOU ARE READING
The End of all Things
Non-FictionCassie has always wanted a horse. She is left alone with her Dad when her mom dies in a car crash. Her father is deeply troubled and forbids horses forever; her mother's favorite animal, along with Cassie's. Cassie wants to ride, but what will she d...
