Our last day! For me, it was kind of bittersweet. On the one hand, I had gotten through 3 days of riding without falling off, falling over, or serious discomfort. I was happy to be almost finished and have that sense of accomplishment, not to mention moving on to Islay. On the other hand, it was so amazing to be out in those landscapes every day, and on horseback no less. We really didn't know what to expect - would we be on ponies? horses? (Well, John knew he'd be a on a horse) Would we be able to walk after the first day? Would I fall off at the first canter? I'm actually really glad they put me on a pony. To me it's kind of like driving a compact versus a minivan. Ponies are just easier for me to manage - they are more my size, and it's just not as far to the ground.
I think the saddles they use also make a big difference. They are specifically for endurance, and they have a very deep seat. The stirrups also have a very wide bar and they're made of hard plastic instead of metal, so they actually have a little give to them. I really did fine every day up until about the last hour, when my legs just wanted to stretch out, preferably on a ottoman with a scotch within easy reach.
I'm pretty sure John, on the other hand, could have gone 3 weeks without a day of rest, even with the cold he had the whole time.
This is where we stopped for lunch on the last day.
John called these the pink and green woods.
And here are our last photos of Ginny and Fern.
Goodbye Highlands
John called these the pink and green woods.
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