Moving On

Here in Nebraska, we appreciate that we have four seasons. Really, we do. But we always worry. We expect spring rains (April showers, May flowers), but if we get too much, we worry that we are “losing our spring!” And if the hot days normally experienced the end of July violate us in what's expected to be mild-weathered June, we worry that we will have three months of humidity. But, God forbid, when snow comes in October, it rocks our world as we know it! We don't worry that we lost our best month of riding, we know it! If you have read my blog or my Stable Talk before it, I’m sure you’ve recognized my distress year after year. But truly, until this early winter, we have had some usual temperatures these last few years - and not all of it bad.

Really, I don’t mind the snow necessarily (as long as it's winter and it goes away quick!) It takes away from the winter gray. But I take exception to BANG! A foot and a half before we have even packed away our bathing suits! It’s been a few weeks now and as I was walking back from the barn this morning, in full weather garb, I came to the conclusion that I have hunkered down for the season. Just two months to go.

Today, winter has brought us the dreaded “wintry mix”. It such a pretty word with a horrible definition. Short version: rain, ice, freezing temperatures and driving hell. No doubt, followed by a foot of snow! Now is when the weatherman starts reporting with alarmingly swell accuracy! Amazing that he can’t figure it out when we want to go on a simple trail ride in May without raingear!

But all this aside, I’m moving on. Making plans. Not only thinking about summer vacation, but I joined one of the Mane Challenge teams competing at the Nebraska Horse Expo this coming March. Pay no mind to the fact that I have never entered a horse show in my life! Nor do I have any idea when or where I might practice this feat with that next foot of snow coming in twenty four hours?

(Have I lost my mind?)

Ah, it’s only 2 classes.

How bad can that be?

(Don’t answer that!)

My friend, Joni, offered me her seasoned show horse, Prinny. Very tempting, though I would hate to embarrass the chap. He is used to winning! Nah, Windy and I are going down together! At least she’ll look pretty whether she accomplishes anything or not. Me?

I need to lose a pound

or two

or ten.

Quick!