Today Sam had his very first pony ride—and loved every second of it.  Holy cow!  Or is it “holy pony?” It seems just like yesterday that he couldn’t even hold his own head up.  It’s all one big blur—that’s what three years of sleep deprivation will do for you.

it was yet another reminder that he is a separate person from me with his own likes and dislikes.  I’m personally not into horseback riding at all.  The sport really doesn’t interest me, and horses kind-of-sort-of-really-do scare me a bit, although you’ve probably figured that out by now.  I guess having the next door neighbor’s horse step on my foot when I was in third grade didn’t help my comfort level around them.  Don’t get me wrong—I do like horses in the abstract.  They are beautiful, sleek, dynamic animals, but they just aren’t my passion.  I’ve never read “Black Beauty” even as a girl, and don’t plan to seek it out at the used bookstore the next time I’m there either.

Anyway, we went to the farm where my friend Katherine grew up.  When she offered a pony ride, Sam was all over it.  I was so surprised at his genuine interest but wasn’t sure if he would really follow through without getting all freaked out.  He sure did follow through - he was the first kid on the saddle with “Dolly,” and rode that pony with great pride, TWICE! 

I was shocked because I had presumed his indifference, my bad.  Seeing him perched happily up there, I was really proud of him and tried not to let on my own discomfort around horses, yes, even ponies.  It was astounding to see the huge smile on his face and how comfortable he was perched up there with no one helping him.  Who knew?  Not me, that’s for sure.  It’s yet a another reminder that he is not me—he is him.  He is Sam, and it’s my job to get to know him and love him for who he is.  Giddy up, Sam!  Yippy kay yay!





LibbY