The Enduring Enchantment: Rediscovering My Childhood Dream

It was the summer of 1959, and I was a spry 12-year-old attending a Boy Scout camp. One of the most memorable experiences I had during that summer was my first-ever horseback ride. From the moment the ornate saddle settled around my waist to the exhilarating moment I felt whirled high above the earth, every sensation was a symphony of adventure and mystery.

The sun was a brilliant beacon, its golden light kissing the horse’s velvety mane as I held the reins with a confidence that bordered on exhilaration. In that moment, the buzzing of insects, the earthy smell of the corral, and the rich scent of leather all contributed to a sensory feast. My heart raced with excitement, and as the horse moved, I felt an inexplicable connection with the magnificent animal.

Under the guidance of a handler, the even hoofbeats created a soothing rhythm, while the swaying of the horse’s spine and the sway of my saddle reflected the harmony between the two of us. As the horse wove itself through the corral, I was captivated by the astounding reality of being one with such an awe-inspiring creature. In that tranquil yet electrifying moment, I realized that I had a unique gift in communicating with horses, and I vowed to spend days and weeks exploring plains and forests with them as my companions.

Despite the passage of time and numerous adventures since that first ride, enduring equine companionship remains a dream I haven’t given up on. Over the past 60 years, I have had the privilege of engaging in numerous trail rides, each one weaving another thread into the tapestry of my life. However, the ultimate goal – to uphold and cherish the dream of solo, extended trail rides – remains the only item on my bucket list.

It's not merely a dream; it's a husbandry of memories and a promise to myself to savor the beauty of freedom and connection, no matter how fleeting the opportunity may be. As I enter my golden years, I remind myself to keep those reins tight and to hold onto the dream with the same fervor as I did that summer so long ago.

Bucket List Extravaganza

Among my many aspirations, besides the dream of solo, extended trail rides, are a handful of other items that I wish to accomplish. These include petting my cat, indulging in the timeless music of Fleetwood Mac or The Beatles, losing myself in the tales of Stephen King, and spending quality time with friends and family. While celebrating the magnificence of nature, a visit to one of the magnificent National Parks is also high on my list. Mardi Gras in New Orleans, with its vibrant atmosphere and exuberant spirit, completes the final piece of my makeshift bucket list.

Embracing the Journey

Life is a grand adventure, and every moment is an opportunity to revisit and honor our childhood dreams. The allure of horseback riding, whether for a casual trail ride or a solo expedition, never truly wanes. It is a reminder of the simple yet profound joys that life can bestow. So, as I reflect on the past, I am equally excited about the future, knowing that my dream of spending extended times with horses will indeed come true, perhaps just one more thrilling ride away.