Phase 3| Best Friend

   Slow work had paid off, Berry was blossoming after weeks and weeks of careful diet and work. Briar had gotten an all-clear from the vet several weeks ago to begin work with the mare. Briar started off very slowly but she immediately noticed the mare was very eager to work. She was so easy and willing and Briar had her saddled and lunging in two days. She tried to bridle the mare but Berry politely refused by raising her head above Briar's reach until she put the bridle away. It wasn't a big deal to Briar and she worked the mare in a bitless bridle. A few days ago Briar decided to hop on the mare and see how she did. Berry looked back at Briar and then headed off at an easy walk. It was obvious from the start that someone had put some good training on her in the past. Berry was so responsive and easy. So the last few days had been spent refreshing Berry's under saddle skills, and today, Briar felt good to go out on a short trail. The best thing about the farm was the acres of vast grassy fields perfect for riding through. 

   Briar slipped on Berry's bitless bridle and, holding her book in one hand and the reins in the other, Briar hopped onto the mare's back and guided her down the dirt path toward the hills at the back of the farm. Berry's long tail flowed behind her. Briar had given it a careful trim, and it was healthier than ever. Briar squeezed the mare into a trot, guiding her along with one hand on the reins. After about ten minutes of riding, the two reached the base of Briar's favorite hill. It had a perfect view of the surrounding fields and a giant tree perfect for lounging under. Berry had her head up, taking in the grass fields around her with ears perked and curious eyes. Briar let the reins fall onto her neck and she gave the mare a gentle scratch. Berry's coat was shining under the warm sun; she was in the best condition, with a healthy coat and good weight. Briar slipped off the mare's back and started walking up the hill; Berry followed her slowly, stopping every now and then to grab a bite of sweet grass. Briar reached the giant shade tree and sat down by it, leaning back against the giant trunk. Berry made her way up the hill after her and moved under the cover of the tree. She lowered her nose to examine the book that Briar had started reading. "Don't eat it," Briar mumbled, swatting away the mare's nose. Berry took a few steps away and lowered her head to start grazing. Briar zoned out a bit as she read, feeling very content in the shade, seeing Berry grazing comfortably a few feet away. After a few pages, Briar took a deep breath and closed her eyes, letting her head fall back against the tree as she listened. Soft bird sounds from the branches above her, the quiet munching from Berry as she grazed. In the distance the sound of running water from the creek. All blown together by the soft rustling of grass. It was perfect, Briar felt warm breath on her knee and opened her eyes to Berry gently nudging her leg. A smile spread on her face. Everything was perfect.