Cowboy Take Me Away

"Cowboy" the horse, that is.

One of the recreations I did last week during my mock stay was horseback riding, something I haven't done since high school. It's a bit like riding a bike, except a bike would never take off running unexpectedly or kick you with its tire. I was wobbly at first, but felt like it didn't take long to get the hang of it.

Somehow, riding a horse has changed a bit. Some extra support via a sports bra was a good forethought. Also, skinny jeans are not the best choice for this activity, especially when paired with running shoes. They are much better suited for the urban cowboy sort. A boot cut with actual boots would have worked much better (go figure).

I had a blast the entire time! We covered about 8 miles of the ranch. I'm not sure what that translates into acres, which feels like it should be the more appropriate lingo. I don't remember the last time a grin involuntarily swept across my face, but I couldn't help myself when we transitioned from slow walking to trotting and galloping. So fun! (I wasn't smiling as much later on when the soreness arrived)

And yes, I'm well aware that my Juicy top is dayglo in these pictures. The puffy sleeves aren't quite aerodynamic, but the color might come in handy. I wanted to be founded easily by a search party, just in case I got myself lost in the Texas hill country.