10.20.08 p.s.

My nieces came out tonight to see Kalvin. They came walking up to the barn wearing cowboy boots and the most giant smiles. They were so excited to be around horses! It surprised me how brave and eager they were to learn and do as much as they could -- brushing, leading, lounging, riding, taking off the polo wraps...they wanted to do everything and they sucked all the information up in their little sponge brains.

My goal is to try to teach them as much as I can but it's going to be a challenge because Kalvin isn't really a kid-safe horse. I wish I had my plot of land out in the country so I could keep a pony for them. Until that dream comes true, I'll do my best with Kalvin. They won't ever be able to ride him without me leading, but at least I can teach them how to care for a horse, and lead them around so they can start to feel comfortable and balanced on a horse. I'm really enjoying teaching them about something I love so much and watching them begin to love it too. It's pretty neat.

Elyssa leading River up to his stall (he's SUCH a good guy):


Brushing Kalvin:


Teaching Elyssa about lounging:


Eva riding: