It was time again to move cows with our friends Lyle & Sherry MacDonald, up at Water Valley. I took Jack because he was so amazing at last year's cattle drive. Riding Jack is so comfortable after all these years together. Neither one of us perfect but we keep each other safe - even when the pressure is on - we can fill in for each other. Jack is only exposed to cattle once, or maybe twice each year and the drive is very exciting. The cows are excited, the people are excited, the mule team is excited - so it can be difficult to stay calm and relaxed for our horses. At one point Jack and I found ourselves surrounded by several young calves and for Jack, it got a bit overwhelming. We worked together to get out of the middle and it proved to me again how important it is to constantly work on our relationship with our horses. Although Jack was very anxious, I never felt worried that he was going to overreact and that is a very comforting feeling when things don't go as planned.
The weather was not very cooperative; as it drizzled, hailed, and poured throughout the day. It was imperative to get the calves across the creek before the forecasted heavy rains started or it could be a problem for the smaller calves to get across the creek safely.
By the end of the day, everyone was wet and cold but happy with the day. Goldie and Melissa had a warm fire and a tasty feast waiting for us when we got back to the home place. We were also delightfully surprised to see Jack Juke waiting for us as well.
This year's drive was fairly uneventful except for the two pairs that decided to take a detour. Lyle and Sherry are confident they'll find their own way home.
It was great to spend a day working with my horse - wish we could move cows more often.
The best part of the cattle drive is that it confirms Spring is finally here!
Tovie, Jack, Gord & Magic
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