Back in the saddle.

Hubs and I went to our big capitol city over the weekend and while there enjoyed a visit to a pumpkin patch to help the granddaughter pick out pumpkins.  The pumpkin patch we visited was like pumpkin patch infinity as was far more than just a pumpkin patch.

There was so much to do at this patch that it can not be called a patch.  It was a production.  It was incredible!  After being directed to park for a $5 fee, we tumbled out of the mini-van with two pregnant daughters and their husbands, and the princess who allows us to dally in her domain. 

As we walked through the gates of the bustling farm,  her eye landed on small horses being guided around a circular loop, young riders on their backs.  A new adventure and I agreed as soon as she pointed her little finger and said she wanted to do that.  We stood in line, paid our fee and soon she was having her first pony ride.  Mommy walked along, with Daddy managing the camera and close by,  and a staff member was on the other side of the pony.  The little girl in pigtails, who holds my heart in the palm of her hand, bounced along on that little pony and grinned her biggest grin.  Mommy smiled big, too, and Daddy snapped away, taking great pictures. 

Something went slightly awry about halfway through the well worn route,  the pony danced, shook and the granddaughter sort of fell off/was pulled off and caught. Staff members came scurrying over and the pony was calmed, Mommy reassured and the little girl was plopped back into the saddle.  Not being sure what spooked the little guy, named LeRoy, the staff suggested it might be the sound of Mommy’s keys, attached to her purse handle.  

The pony finished its circuit and came to a halt, carrying the brave little princess, her smile not quite as confident but still in place.   She was lifted out of her saddle by a teary eyed Papa.  She informed us that LeRoy was scared, and so was she, but she liked it. 

I can’t get over how brave of her to get back in that saddle to “try again”, which is one of her favorite phrases, usually with a giggle.  I can’t get over how brave of Mommy and Daddy, either!   I can’t get over how quickly my heart melts, again and again.