Today, Kaylyn's friend Rylie had her 6th birthday party at a local stable. Kaylyn was a bit nervous beforehand about riding a horse.
First, Kaylyn got a tour of the property. The hay barn ("ewww - it smells" said Kaylyn - but it just smelled like hay). Then the boarding stalls. The tack room, where we got to see and smell the 3 different feeds/minerals ("ewww - it smells" said Kaylyn for the first two but the alfalfa one which was green was "oh, pretty").
Then we returned to the indoor arena where Kaylyn got to groom a horse. She used 3 different grooming tools. She was barely touching the horse, who got to endure enjoy 10 different kids do this.
Next, it was Kaylyn's turn to ride.
She wanted on the itty bitty horse but someone else claimed it first. I thought at that point, we'd have an issue. She was a little nervous already. But she was happy when the other girl chose the large horse and Kaylyn got the pony - Sweet Pea. Her instructor showed her how to hold the reins and then how to go, turn and stop. And then she was off. I was so amazed because we didn't get any of the clinging to Mommy that she often does in new environments.
Kaylyn did a great job and loved it! After several trips walking slowly, she got to do one length at a faster rate (but still probably technically walking).
Here she is after riding the pony.
After Kaylyn's turn, everyone had had a turn. There was still some time left so each kid was offered a second turn. When I asked Kaylyn, she jumped at the chance. This time she got on Frank, the large horse. Again, she had a blast. She now wants to have her next birthday party here!
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