We had our first horseback lesson today- it was a gift from Carter to Maddie for her birthday last year, it just took me this long to get organized about it.
On the way there, I thought I’d pave the way with some safety talk.
Me: So, guys, do you have any ideas about how to stay safe around the horses?
Carter: Don’t get stepped on.
Maddie: Oh, yes. I have one, but it’s long.
Me: Please share it!
Maddie: Okay. Well, if your horse is rearing up, once it gets to a certain point-
Carter: I was on a bucking horse once. A bucking bronco.
Maddie: Yes, well, if the horse gets to a certain point while rearing up, I think it’s very important
Carter: A bucking. Bucking Bronco. He was bucking. I stayed on though and didn’t fall.
Maddie: Yes, Carter. Well, if the horse is rearing up and gets to a certain point, it’s very important (pauses and braces herself for the interruption, which, miracle of miracle, doesn’t happen)
Carter: What’s important?
Maddie: If the horse rears up to a certain point, if it’s a thousand pound horse, it’s a good idea to jump off and away from the horse before it falls on top of you.
Me: Ah, yes. An excellent safety tip. Jump away from the horse before being crushed.
Carter: (a bit later, as we’re exploring the stable) I have a safety tip.
Me: Yes? (hoping for at least one safety tip that might actually come into play during the lesson)
Carter: Do not smell a horse’s butt.
Common sense never smelled so great.
