pony rides

our mops group arranged for pony rides at a local stable. i didn't tell the kids where we were going or what we were doing (because it was a rainy morning and it might get cancelled) other than we were going to meet up with the mops group and going to celebrate a friend's birthday afterwords.  the plan was ponies, lunch at wendy's and then over to the church with the indoor playplace.  madelyn made the boy (who was turning 4) some birthday pictures even though she had not met him before.  such a sweet girl.

madelyn wanted to look her best for the outing.

she wanted to ride this pony because it had a "colorful saddle"

mason wasn't too sure on his first time around but got the hang of things quickly.

maddux watching his brother and sister take a turn

maddux was really excited until it was his turn.  he didn't want to ride so the staff member suggested one of the older kids ride with him and mason volunteered to ride while i walked along (manning was on me in the moby wrap).  madelyn didn't want to be left out so the staff member let her help lead the pony.


how i took a group picture



the staff member suggested that i run ahead and get a picture from the front - thanks!

and mason wanted to go a second time around

no wonder the kids were a little afraid to feed the pony - look at the size of those teeth right at eye level.

being shown the right way to feed him

maddux needed a little help getting close enough for the pony to reach the carrot.

the rain stayed away all morning and didn't start coming down until we got into the car from our last stop.  and then it rained for like two hours.  the kids and i enjoyed snack on the front porch so we could watch.  it was a very nice day.  so lucky that i got to spend it with them.  love.