Averbeck Blog 18

            Do you have a happy place? A place where you go to unwind and collect your thoughts? 

            Well, I sure do.

            Don't get me wrong, I love the farm, but any chance I get, especially this time of year, you can bet I can be found riding my four-legged best friend, who seems to enjoy the trails just as much. Just look into his eyes and he will tell you a story that reaches your soul. 

            My friend messaged me and said she could leave work early and wanted to know if I could join her on the trail. Even though my to-do list is a mile long of things to get done before winter, it did not take me long to clear my schedule for the day. Riding is my absolute favorite thing to do in the fall. And with 70 degrees and sunny in the middle of October, I had very little hesitation to hit the trails.   

            The trail winding the woods, up and down the rolling hills, leaves crunching beneath the horses' hooves, and the leaves floating to the ground make for a tranquil setting. As we made our way through the wood, we came to an opening that overlooked the valley around us. The time seemed to stall as I looked around and took in the breathtaking beauty of the vibrant colored trees. So many different shades of oranges and golds and deep reds were blanketed against the green pine trees scattered throughout. I can't even begin to describe the beauty. 

            This scene is exactly why it is my happy place. It takes me to another place and time.    

            My horse, well-seasoned on the trails, worked up a bit of a sweat with his winter coat starting. I think he pulled out his winter coat last week as temperatures dipped below freezing and 2 inches of snow fell to the ground. Who knew five days later it would be over 70 with no way for him to take off that winter coat. He was a good sport about it and had no hesitation to explore the great outdoors. We made it just over 6 miles on our ride. I made sure to add an extra scoop of feed and an abundance of apples as a reward for carrying me on our journey. 

            We had the most perfect day and memories to hold onto to carry me through until our next adventure.