After a couple months of awesome harvest weather, I made it back to the mountain. Connie was super excited to have me home, but not so sure the horses had the same sentiment. She loves to spoil these boys and when I show up they know it’s work time again. Although the weather has been crappy with lots of rain and then snow, we’ve still been able to get out daily.

Riding up the North Fork of Flathead country is just gorgeous this time of year. The fall colors are still prevalent and snow in the higher elevations is so pretty.

We frequently ride up our mountain. Working the horses through the forest service fuels reduction areas is great conditioning for them. No trail just boondocking your way through light deadfall. Teaching the horse not to become agitated from walking through the debris. Connie is a trooper putting up with the cold wet conditions.

As I was grabbing Tanner one day, Freckles gave me a look of “hey what about me” it was obvious he wanted to get out of the pasture and stretch his legs. He hasn’t been ridden since the grandkids were here last July. At 21 yrs old we try not to use him very hard anymore. So I saddled him up and boy was he excited. I think we underestimate his physical ability, cuz he was definitely showing me he could still get things going. So much fun!

It’s sure great to be back on the mountain.