As we pulled into my father-in-law's driveway, we saw his partner, Granny Sue, waiting for us. She held the halter of a pony, and my first thought was, "Oh my God. Did they get the kids a pony for Christmas?!"
Turns out, this new addition to their farm was saddled up to provide the children with conveyance from the van to the house. Jude was first up for a ride.
Violet could hardly wait; she popped on her brother's hat, and was completely at home in the saddle. I'm one of those people who have never owned a horse, and has ridden very little, but is convinced that I am, nonetheless, a horse-person. On my list of things to do before I die, owning a horse (or a few!) is in the top five. Until then, we can always visit Grandpa and Granny for a ride!
Something tells me that, had they not received any other gifts but this, this pony ride would have been more than enough to make their Christmas bright.
Just magical. What memories.
ReplyDeleteEcho your sentiments on being a "horse person" - I also have never owned a horse, and hardly ever ridden one, but am a horse person just the same!
ReplyDeleteLove the pics of your sweet kiddos and the pony!
There are many ways to be an equine enthusiast. You can be a horse person even if you're a big chicken in their presence. I speak from experience.
ReplyDeletePhotographic serendipity rocks! Love those shots, mama!
I love that your first thought was "did they get the kids a pony" that would have been my first thought as well :-) What a nice little surprise for your kids though! I have been riding a family friend's horse for as long as I can remember, the horse is a year older than I am. And think it is very easy to become a horse person. It is a great connection!
ReplyDeleteI used to have a pony, and they are a lot of work...this set up is perfect!
ReplyDeletewhat a special welcoming. wondering who I know who can saddle up a pony for my little guy to ride.
ReplyDeletebest in the new year!