A Surprise Visit

A week out, it looked like we would be having a quiet weekend. To our surprise, niece Diana was in St. Louis with her family and wondered if they could come out for a visit.

Of all our relatives, Diana is unique in that she spent several summers with us in Bowling Green, beginning at the age of 6. Of course, we had her on a horse before that, on a visit when she was only two. Safety was not a priority then – do not do this, kids! Always wear a riding helmet. I am forever grateful to Diana’s parents, Mark and Deb, for entrusting their little girl to us, and I’m very glad she survived her adventures with me.

Diana rode many horses over those summers, but her horse of a lifetime was her own pony, Crunchie. We bought him for her when I realized she needed to be free to trail ride with her friend, Audra, when she visited. I wanted her to come back alive, and Crunchie provided that assurance. Diana’s riding career culminated in a Pony Jumper Championship at Trader’s Point, long ago. Now, she is a Nurse Practitioner in Boston, and married to Pat Mahoney, with two children of their own. We were thrilled to see them.

Conor Mahoney is 6 years old, and Nicholas is almost 2. They arrived and settled right in at the piano. Our quiet life was considerably less quiet, suddenly!

Many pictures were taken to mark this unexpected visit, and Jane came right over, being an integral part of the family.

Before long, Conor became curious about the big camera. He was a very quick learner and I passed the photography off to him. He found some interesting views, and seems to have quite a talent.

They couldn’t stay long. We spent some time on the porch. There was a game of “Raise your hand if you like ________.” Many hands were raised for horses, dogs, cats and birds.

We walked over to Jane’s house to see a donkey, Conor taking pictures all the way.

Soon, they were off to meet up with other family, but the fun of their visit will remain for a long time.

Life returned to normal, and I soaked Stone’s foot. He is the best patient, so sensible and quiet that I can do other things while he soaks. Usually, I need to stand by and keep replacing the foot in the soak pan, but Stone is perfect. He is still pretty sore, but these things require “tincture of time” and it’s a long weekend.

Squirrel Nutkin paid a visit to the porch, as did the crows. Visitors are always delighted by the birds, which is fun.

The full day ended well, with just enough time for a ride on Oisin before showering and galloping off to early dinner with good friends. We were home in time for sunset.

Be safe (wear riding helmets), be well, keep in touch! Slava Ukraini! Peace.