I’m not sure how much sleep Derrick got but he drove truck and trailer through the night from Stevens Point to arrive at Endless Valley very early in the morning. It’s a wonder he found the campsite but he took good care of me before catching a brief nap until there was activity all over the grounds. After registering he groomed me quickly and we headed to the vet check where we passed with flying colors. It was pleasant to hear so many fine compliments regarding my condition and shiny coat from people we passed by. This was going to be a very busy day for me with a 20-mile drive in the morning and a presentation of my horse tricks just before dinner tonight.

Derrick and I were third out, following Jac and Scooter and before Wes and Lena. After a short flat beginning through the camp we negotiated the big long hill at a steady trot. That certainly got me invigorated and we both realized this drive was going to be a challenging test. The tall grass trails were well marked and mowed to about 8-10 feet wide. Our route often followed a well-worn path that trail horses had made as they meandered single file up and down the landscape parallel to the steep ravines that carried away the runoff. Around mile 8 we encountered a formidable challenge with first a steep decline on grass and then a steep incline with sporadic clumps of large rocks. However, all went well and it was great to see the other horses and drivers back at camp for the 40-minute hold. I do remember the drivers’ conversation about the steep drop offs alongside the trail which followed the ravines. Jac was especially concerned as the tall grass masked the danger.

The second time around on this loop would still be challenging but there should be no surprises. After negotiating the big hill, Derrick slowed me down and seemed to relax as we followed the path up and down the hills. In fact, Derrick allowed me to follow the worn dirt path as it meandered back and forth on the mowed trail. Then it happened. We were headed downhill and suddenly he yells and pulls as the cart tips into the ravine. At first I thought it was one of his crazy horse tricks and when in doubt I just stand there. With my blinders preventing me from looking back, I can only imagine the haste and commotion of Derrick scrambling to recover himself and the contents of the cart. Then with a surge of energy from that skinny body of his, he grunts and heaves the meadowbrook back on its wheels. After checking things over he climbs back in and off we go to finish this drive.

That evening I did some fine tricks for the audience of riders at Endless Valley. I bowed and counted and fetched balls for treats to lots of applause. But without a doubt, standing still in a stressful situation like I did that afternoon is my most valuable trick. Just ask Derrick.