We all have one. A list of things we want to do before we kick the bucket. Some things are relatively straight forward some are more complicated and to a degree less achievable. At least they seem so at the time of said list writing.
I have proudly ticked many items off my list in the last few weeks, and amidst health issues and horse issues found myself in the middle of the Snowy Mountains with Roxy and my friend Christine and her horse Neville.
List Item A: Overcoming Lack of Float Towing Experience - You could count on one had the amount of times I have towed a float in my life. Thanks to my hard working hubby and Christine's float, we towed both horses 6 hours each way with the super powerful Mitsubishi Triton. The horses were a dream to float and we did it in style.
Item B: To See Wild Horses - We hoped to see Brumby's but I don't think either of us imagined we would see so many and that they would be so beautiful! Small mobs of three or four up with some mobs up to eight or nine. What I wouldn't give to be able to study them full time! (Something to add to the list maybe?)
Item C: To Ride in the Snowy Mountains - Thanks to maps and the modern technology of the Personal GPS we covered over 80kms of trails on the western side of the Snowy Mountain Ranges of NSW, incident free, and saw some breathtaking views as well as some of the most beautiful high country terrain I have ever encountered.
While these are three achievements off my bucket list, there were a few little personal ones. Mainly recovering from an appendix operation in time to actually go and to also have Roxy be able to do the trip and not flip out at any point.
Although the lack of proper preparation meant that Roxy was less fit than she should have been, (she has pulled up a bit sore and is having a few weeks off), I really couldn't fault her bravery and courage. There were also her funny quirks like putting her head down and tracking Brumby's like a blood hound, thinking that every stump was going to eat her as she gave it an evil look and getting busting her in a mutual groom with Neville. There are the moments you don't forget and those which create bonds that are priceless.
What I wouldn't give to be back there. Under the gum trees with a cuppa, a roaring pit fire, birds singing, a cool late afternoon chill against my back and watching the horses hang out after a good days riding.
It really was a taste of adventure's to come....look out Australia!
Lorrie and Roxy
