A Horseback Riding Adventure!

My copper-colored steed Leon was a worthy mount (even if he occasionally tripped over rocks on the trail)

For some time now, I have longed to go horseback riding. Not just a trot around a track. I mean, real riding, on the trail, in the woods, through the mountains, over hill and dale...you get the picture.

That dream was realized this weekend when my friend Christina and I hit the road and drove to the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Hume, Virginia, and went on a 1.5-hour trail ride at the Marriott Ranch.

It was a glorious autumn day. The trees were in full color -- deep reds, fiery oranges, and rustic yellows -- against that bright blue sky that only a day in late fall can afford. The weather was perfect in the low 60s. Weather like that just feels like a gift.

The ride was just what I needed. The slow, soothing rhythm of the horse as he so graciously carried me on the trails - across streams, up and down hills, and through meadows. Manna to a soul overwrought by the cruel concrete and steel of city life. Being in the city has worn on me lately. All the noise, air pollution, and the angry, rude people. I needed some simplicity and some quiet.  I am a country girl by birth and will remain so at heart always.

My and Leon's shadow on the trail

Christina flashes a smile on the trail!

Heading toward an open field with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance

Heading back to the ranch

The end!

Blog Must-Reads: My Suitcase Heart + ...like a rolling stone

{One of dani's stunning cards from her shop}

One of the most rewarding things about blogging is encountering true kindred spirits! Two of my favorite blogs are janis' my suitcase heart and dani's ...like a rolling stone. And ironically, both are good friends in real life!  janis uses gorgeous photographs to depict her charming life:  her jolly adventures, sweet boyfriend, and adorable family. dani records her intelligent, soulful musings and photographs from her world travels. dani also has a delightful card shop, dani press that features original photographs and spot-on sentiments.

I recently won some of dani's artful cards from a giveaway on janis' blog, which gave me such glee! I was so joyful when the little package arrived from dani last week! Part of me wants to share the meaningful cards with close friends and part of me wants to frame them for my own! Either way, they are lovely and I highly recommend you frequent dani's shop as well as her and janis' blogs!

{A wee package arrives!}