Kinship With Horses 

When I was 14, I was a horse crazy kid.  I dreamed of riding horses all day, every day, in wonderful places with good friends.   I mentioned this to my friend Alice one cold December day during a lesson and we mused about the idea that if people rode more - every day - there would be no need for horsemanship coaches- the relationship would be more natural and certainly more familiar.  It was a simple conversation.

A week later, Alice returned and said, "Let's do it!"   The rest is history now.  In April of 2008, some horsecrazy people set out on what was to be the first of several unbelievable treks to Arizona where we would ride, day after day, through some of the most scenic spots on earth on the backs of Alice's  brave and awesome icelandic horses.  For close to a month, we are horsewomen - to the core!  Our most recent journey (April 2010) is still fresh in our minds!

These trips with Alice's Icelandics have deepened my belief that horses will do most anything we ask, willingly, and as clearly as we ask.  Traveling across country, countless trips in and out of the trailer, overnight stays in different barns, taking us daily on our rides, they were there for us every step of the way.  Our relationship as caretakers seemed to blend together at times, forming a partnership.    We have much to learn from  horses.  These treks are truly unforgettable.

You will see pictures here of Alice, her daughter Lori, my dear friend and the gifted photographer, Annie Widger (Gentle Thunder Farm) and me.  The Icelandics are Toppur, Stocha and Flicka. All of the horses made the trip barefoot ( a special thanks to Kim Kidd for his expert farrier work!) and to our amazement, these sturdy horses made it from being ridden in three foot snow drifts in the east to the dry deserts and high mountains of Arizona - barefoot all the way!

So sit back and enjoy these photos.  Simply click on the first picture and you will be able to see them as a slide show. The pictures displayed are from our most recent dream ride - 2010.   You will be amazed by the scenery. Between looking at pictures, close your eyes and allow the feel of the horses in your mind and touch the rhythm of this ride.  Can you feel it?  It is palpable - and magical.

Pictures tell our story

We are all greatful to Annie for taking such sensitive and reflective pictures.  To have these memories preserved is a special gift to all of us who were able to take this ride - and we hope they are a special gift to you who could not make the journey.   One thing you may notice as you look at these pictures is that smiles are easy, relaxed shoulders (horses and people) are evident throughout, and the grace of God and nature have kissed all of us on the trail.