"I don't like horses" says Adam.. as a mom you learn to listen to the subtext and what I was really hearing was.. horses are big and scary.. therefore I don't want to like them (or.. maybe that was just me...) Adam and I and my gal friend Marie spent the night and day up in Sebastapol at my brother Tim's house. He owns two horses and is thinking about taking another one on.. this one here in the photo, her name is Ellie. We got up there after dark so we only got to see the horses for a short time.. basically a meet and greet. There was Roger, a tall copper colored drink of water.. Tucker, mean and a bit on the wild-eyed side.. and Ellie, small and quiet with a sprinkling of salt and pepper here and there. Uncle Tim asked Adam if he wanted to ride in the morning and after saying no a few times.. Adam finally said he would think about it. Well, the next morning comes and Adam is ready to do it.. I was so proud of him and kept my mouth shut as I didn't want my fears to attach to him and ruin this opportunity for him... He climbed right up and after a few feet asked to go faster.. I followed in front, behind and on his side... moving back and forth between pride and fear.. until finally I trusted the situation and knew that it was going to be all good.
I learned a lesson today from my son. Face down your fears and do not let them keep you from having wonderful, fun experiences. Sometimes you just have to push on through.
FYI: I even rode Ellie for a few moments.. and I have to admit I was pretty scared.. horses are big!
