A Memory of Snow

It's the first snowfall of the year And it takes me back.... I remember the first time I rode her in the snow, So afraid she'd slip. She didn't want to go out But we both needed some fresh air and exercise. Her ears laid flat when she saw the saddle. She was not impressed. I think she had hoped I was just bringing a treat. The snow wasn't deep. A few wayward snowflakes, stragglers, Were still falling. So I saddled her and off we went. Avoiding paved roads Where she would be more likely to slip. We stayed to the dirt road running past the house And a few familiar trails. I believe she aimed for low hanging boughs. I was covered in snow in the first twenty minutes. My punishment for this silly idea, I guess. Soon her ears picked up and her step became more sprightly. She, too, was getting into the spirit of it. Only an hour, then back to the barn. No falls, a couple minor slides in footing Which she handled like a pro. There I brushed her down And she attacked apples with a renewed appetite. The next day the rain washed it all away, Except for the memory..... it remains.