In many ways, we've got our eyes shut about Buddy. We see what we want to see.
Lily had a riding lesson yesterday with a new person because (1) her usual teacher just had a baby and (2) her usual teacher's price just went way up. This new person is an assistant that her usual teacher hired. Lily, Buddy and the new teacher seem to have very good chemistry, and the new teacher appeals to Lily's sense of adventure and risk-taking.
In other words, I don't necessarily keep my eyes open.
The new teacher watched them for a while and then said, "Lily, what you need to know is that Buddy is a 'Take-Advantage-of-You kind of horse.'"
He's so very sweet, gentle and personable. He wouldn't do anything like that, take advantage of his rider?
Yes.
But we're on to him. And he's really, really teaching Lily how to ride.
And like many bad boys, he also knows how to work us. This morning he came whinnying and running up the fence to see me. He makes me feel so special. It wasn't because I was going to feed him. He loves me for myself alone. Right?
Every morning before Lily leaves for school he comes to the fence so she can kiss him on the nose. (There's always a possibility she has food. But truly, he's just about the friendliest horse you can find.)
Charming. Naughty. Capable and trying. That's our Buddy. Oh wait. Lily keeps reminding me. HER Buddy.
I'm sure with Buddy that it is all about love and has nothing to do with food.
Posted by: Simply Marvelous | January 12, 2008 at 12:20 PM
Well, at least Buddy has some endearing characteristics as well as the take advantage attitude. There are lots of horses out there that are just plain bullies with no redeeming qualities.
Posted by: risingrainbow | January 13, 2008 at 08:08 PM
Oh those naughty charmers! This post certainly brought a smile to my face. Thank you. :)
Posted by: Kristine | January 14, 2008 at 11:24 AM