Sunset Moonrise ~ From the Back of a Mule

There is no place on earth that is more pleasing to me than to be on the back of a good solid likeable mule.

Badger was feeling exceptionally well again as the weather cooled off and the winds died down.

I called out to the pasture where he and Opal were.
Badger beat Opal [although she is a little bit more wary when seeing a lead rope and halter].

I haltered Badger and pet Opal. She almost seemed to be disappointed that she wasn't chosen.

I saddled Badger quickly and we were off to enjoy an evening ride and watch the sun go down together...something we hadn't done in quite a while.

Let me tell you.
There is nothing like sitting quietly on a mule and watching the day come to an end.
Watching the deer move across the fields as the full moon rises in the east and the sun sets in the west.

Nothing better either is there than talking to a neighbor down the road.
Me, sitting on Badger.
Her, sitting in her skid steer with her cattle dogs sitting obediently next to the machine.

Naturally we discuss what interests us.
Animals, hers and mine.
She has known Badger for a long time.

She gets out and gently brushes her hand against his head.
*Fine mule,* she says.
From my neighbor, that is a mighty nice compliment.


I sit on Badger, she returns to her skid steer and we wave at each other.
She has chores to finish, and I want to get home before it is too dark to see.

Although the moon rises full.
I shrug. No hurry then.
The moon will light the way.