McKay wanted to do the horsemanship merit badge, but we didn't know how. I found an organization called "Save the Horses,' that is a horse rescue. We decided to volunteer there as a family. I asked Kathy if she knew anything about how to get the merit badge and she did! She is the horsemanship merit badge counselor! We met with them two times. The first time Kathy was with us for 2 hours and taught us lots about horses.
Learning about the parts of a horse.
This poor horse lost his eyes.
Meeting the rest of the animals.
Learning about the food.
Mammoth mule. It was huge!
We finished up the horsemanship merit badge on the same day our family had the "Save the Horses," orientation to volunteer. They were so great to let McKay stay after and finish up the requirements.
I knew that McKay was pretty nervous about it. He had a horse that was pretty old, missing his front teeth and an eye. The poor thing was struggling, but I think it was okay for McKay. The horse's name was Jackson.
Lincoln was super interested in it too.
McKay learned to groom the horse.
And put the saddle on.
Hunter came after pole vaulting, so we took a family picture with Jackson.
Heading out to the ring.
This is sweet Margery. She doesn't like kids and wasn't too thrilled to be asked to teach McKay how to saddle a horse. Imagine our surprise when she decided to stay with us through the whole thing. She said multiple times how much fun she had and even invited McKay to come and ride her personal horse.
Learning to get on the horse.
Look at the big smile! He quickly forgot how nervous he was and enjoyed the experience.
McKay had to trot with the horse and Jackson did not want to trot, so this sweet gal ran with him.
Sweet Kathy was so encouraging and good with McKay. We love her!
McKay unsaddled Jackson and then gave him a rub down.
Put on his fly mask.
Giving Jackson a treat.
We love Boy Scouts. McKay has so many fun experiences that he wouldn't have without it!
No comments:
Post a Comment