Old Stories and New Beginnings

Take a Good Look Around. It's the title of the legendary Jimmy Wofford's newest book, and many times recently, I have thought to myself, "Take a good look around."

Last Thursday, I attended Jimmy's book signing at the National Sporting Library in Middleburg, which houses a treasure chest of books, art, and all things equestrian. Listening to Mr. Wofford deliver a touching recitation of a poem about a cherished dog, I peered around the room thinking, how lucky I am to be here, listening to this. The book, which I have already finished reading, is a compilation of stories from his adventures hunting, fishing, riding, and coaching across the country and around the world. Any outdoorsman will appreciate Jimmy's humor and storytelling. On top of this, Jimmy is one of the most accomplished riders and teachers in US history, and he is so analytical and intellectual in his observations of the sport.

I left the event to go and check on my new horse turned out in the field, who just arrived in Virginia aboutbout two weeks ago. "Rufus" is a 16.1 h, 5 year old, bay Thoroughbred gelding. He has one white sock on his right front leg. My long-time friend Dorothy Crowell found him with a former student, Brooke Miller, in Kentucky. He is out of Brooke's intermediate mare "Mouse" by Denny Emerson's stallion "Reputed Testimony." Rufus has never competed, but I have taken him to his first two cross country schooling days since I got him. Rufus is curious, inquisitive, and brave, and I am enjoying having him in the barn. He will make his eventing debut at the Young Event Horse competition at Waredaca in Gaithersburg, Maryland on June 1st.

From old stories come new beginnings. With horses, you never know where the road will take you. They took Jimmy around the globe. Listening to his speech and then visiting Rufus, I sat on the fence, staring across the field staring at the thriving green grass thinking, "Take a good look around." What adventures will come from this new horse, and where will we go next? Stay tuned as Rufus prepares for his first competition.