The Big Tire

This week James and I went on a field trip with our barn mates to an obstacle clinic! It had been way too long since James and I had done anything that required a trailer ride to get there.

It was morning, and we were set to leave in about 45 minutes. James was in his usual feeding stall enjoying his grain while I groomed him. He must have felt my anticipation and excitement, for he questioned me with a sweet openness:

“Are we doing something special today?”

“Yes, we certainly are, my man,” I replied. “We are doing something special because you are my special man.”

At loading time, James marched right onto the trailer. He was ready to go.

At the clinic, James was his usual rockstar self. We started with the easier obstacles, and then worked our way up to the more challenging ones. It was so fun to engage with him. And, it was heartwarming to be reminded of how solid and comfortable our relationship is. I cherish the special time of being with him in partnership.

One of the bonuses of going to the clinic was that it was at the same barn that his number one mare of all time now lives. James always loves his mares, but Cat is his favorite one and I know he misses her. We had some down time at the clinic, and Cat and James got to spend almost an hour grazing together. Such a sweet time for them, and it was so sweet to watch them bask in each other’s company.

After we returned home from the clinic, I asked him what he thought of our field trip:

“Ooh- that was fun! I know I didn’t look particularly excited, but I was. I got to do something different, and we were together all day! Cat was icing on the cake.”

“It’s good to change things up- do different things. It’s how we expand ourselves. It was a special day. Thank you for that gift. I always love doing things with you.”

I asked James about some of the different obstacles. I sent James a picture of the obstacle in my mind and then asked, “What did you think about that one?” “How about this one?”

I was particularly curious about his opinion of the teeter totter. He did really well, and seemed fascinated by it:

“That one was very interesting. I was quite intrigued by how it felt through my entire body. Rocking it back and forth was very good for my core.”

Such a serious and thoughtful answer!

I asked James what his favorite part of the clinic was.

I thought for sure he was going to say spending time with Cat! But, he didn’t. James said his favorite part of the clinic was:

“The big tire, because I know that’s what you wanted. I’d make a great dog because I love to please.”

Lol. I love James’ humor.

Still talking about the big tire:

“I was good, wasn’t I?” James says with a playful pride.