Horseback Riding

Monday and Tuesday were my first days off. Not one to waste trades, I booked a massage on Monday and a horseback ride on Tuesday. The massage was lovely, I was upgraded to the teepee! It was lovely to be massaged in a teepee, although I have to say once you close your eyes to relax, the only real difference is the sound of birds. Okay, I'll be honest, I'm just not down with a male masseuse, unless I'm dating him. But other than that, it was spectacular.

Tuesday, Heather, the Sarah Vowell of the ranch, and I went on a 3-hour horseback ride along trails on the ranch property. The two young eighteen year old wranglers that we had seen goofing off and generally being teenagerish at our employee meals seemed so much older and capable once they were on horses. Heather and I, on the other hand, both felt much less capable without our own two feet under us. Heather is 20, almost the youngest employee, very quiet and not particularly outdoorsy. This is her second year working at the ranch though, so she must like some part of it. She had never been horseback riding till yesterday and we might go on her first hike next week. All that said, she has the driest, wittiest sense of humor. Yes, I'm learning from her.

The ride was great. It was an absolutely beautiful day. We were with seven of the guests, so got to hear some of their stories of jobs and life. We rode up Gold Creek to the top of a mountain with more views of the Salmon River. Then back down to the ranch. The only downside, my back and bum are on fire! I tried to hop in the hot springs pool last night, but it was full of guests! (as if!) Hopefully I'll time my soak better tonight.