Youngsters and their parents began arriving at Legacy Farm and Stable early on December 19th to decorate horses. They came from a wide area over Stevens and Spokane counties. Once all 15 steeds had been decked in their festive best, the cavalcade (formal procession) departed the stable. Taking a route often used for the trail riding program at Legacy Farm and Stable, then crossing Highway 292, the group proceeded to Colville Road. There the caroling began. An advance team went ahead on an ATV to knock on doors and let people know the riders were coming. Many residents were excited to come stand outside in the cold and take pictures and sing along.
The total of people involved topped 30, including parents. Only qualified students can ride a horse on the street in winter. The younger children and those who are just beginning are led by a person on foot, or else by an experienced rider from horseback. There were two stops for trading riders so all of the kids got to take part in the fun and the singing.
The caroling proceeded through the main part of Loon Lake and looped through a residential area, then crossed the highway again and circled through Morgan Park homes. The kids sang very well and the adults added volume. It was great fun and like 2019, the weather was cold and there was snow on the ground but for mid-December it was very mild. It was a tremendously fun experience for everyone.
Legacy Farm and Stable at 4061 Hwy 292, has been a fixture in Loon Lake for 20 years. The Christmas caroling has been held every December for nearly 10 years. The stable trains all year and accepts new riders at any time. All equestrian disciplines, beginner to advanced, pleasure to active competitors are welcome. All will find the lesson experience very rewarding. The stable specializes in 3-day Eventing, also called Combined Training, which is actually a combination of three disciplines: Dressage, cross country over fences, and stadium (or show) jumping. Historically, the sport was included in the first modern-day Olympics as a test for military officers and their mounts. It is an Olympic sport today open to civilian riders. Legacy Farm and Stable actively compete all over the states of Washington, Idaho, and western Montana. Prior to the very odd 2020 competition season, Legacy Farm and Stable students have been invited to regional championships as well as national championships. Excellence in horse care and handling, as well as tremendous character-building opportunities for young people, is the norm.
Photos Courtesy of Legacy Farm and Stable
Featured Image Caption: The riders from Legacy Farm and Stable on their way to carol in Loon Lake.
