Riding lesson

For Sophia's birthday, Grandma and Grandpa got her a riding lesson with Grandpa's former instructor.  Sophia was beyond excited!

First she helped get the tack and his grooming bucket.

And then she met Redford.

She helped groom and brush him.

Even picking his feet!

Her teacher put on the saddle and pad, the Sophia helped bridle him and lead him to the riding arena.

and then the exciting part- mounting and starting her riding lesson!

Caleb wasn't thrilled to be there but did agree to help set up the cones.

Learning to steer through tight circles and turns

Proud equestrian

Here are a few videos of Sophia riding Redford:

Steering

 learning how to "jog"  

jogging with grandpa  

A very successful first riding lesson- she actually controlled and steered him by herself towards the end!

Quinny decided to take the photo op and ended up getting a short ride and LOVED IT!

He didn't want to get off!  We had to bribe him with the promise of feeding Redford a treat to get him down. Looks like both Quinn and Sophia inherited Grandpa's love of horses!

Redford loves peppermint candies!

Bye, Redford!

Redford takes a bow before going to eat his lunch.

Sophia can't wait to ride again!