Well last week before "the virus" I dropped the teenager off at a leaders house to load up horses and gear to go camping.
They had planned a big campout and the leader was bringing horses so the could ride and work on a horsemanship merit badge.
From the beginning his Dad and I did not have a good feeling about this, and the more we thought about it, we really didn't want him to go.
There were just too many elements with boys who are not used to being around horses out a hundred miles from anywhere that could happen and it would not be a good situation.
The teenager was determined he wanted to go, but agreed not to ride any of the horses, so he took a bike to ride trails while the others were on horses.
I was surprised at how easily he complied once we explained our concerns.
(especially since he argues and tries to negotiate every other rule that is layed down around here).
So with all of those issues out of the way (other than the leaders making us feel like we are the meanest parents in the world for not letting him ride, not that I care what they think about how I parent my child... but it would have been helpful to have them back us up on the deal).
As they packed and loaded... it turns out only 1 other boy ended up showing up for the trip.
But they all agreed they wanted to go anyway... 2 boys and 2 leaders and 3 horses, and one bike.
Oh and of course... one really BIG belt buckle.(thanks to his cousins and a little influence from living in Idaho, he is really into big belt buckles, but not boots or hats yet... go figure)
They finished loading up and were off!
He made it home safe and sound and had a really good time, and didn't break any of the no horseback riding rules. And didn't even seem to mind. He had a super fun time.
So something to add to my list of things to do this summer, take the teenager horseback riding where he can learn all the right things to do and not do, and in a more controlled environment, with responsible people, and access to the hospital if necessary.
2 comments:
From his Nene who loves to ride...I'm sure you know best but please please let's make sure he has an opportunity to learn all the dos and don'ts.
horses are a lot of work & they each have their own personality that's the hardest part.
I don't know anything about horses really- don't get me wrong- but my boys have learned a lot about them from their Gpa & I'm sure jake will get more opportunities to ride. Talk about jumpin the gun- maybe next time they'll do some pre- activities before such a huge one. Obviously you weren't the only one concerned or more kids wouldve showed up!?
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