Haylofts

There is something magical about a hay loft. I am not certain what world we enter upon reaching the top of the ladder, but I know that when I'm there everything else falls away.  It's a peaceful place that calls you to linger.  It sits above the busy action below. I imagine it would be the same if we could sit in clouds, above the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  I love being able to take the time to sit in the hayloft. Every season is so different. Today it is raining and the pinging of the raindrops falling on the metal roof make music which echoes in the indoor while the gurgling of the gutters drones on and on. In the winter, when snow falls outside, the barn is silent except for the horses crunching and munching their hay. I love the lights from the Christmas wreath which hangs on the front hayloft door casting soft light through the windows into the loft. Remembering the summer I can close my eyes and feel the heat in the loft and the sweat rolling down my back. I can smell the fresh cut hay and when the light, barely perceptible breeze floats through the open doors I stand and pull my shirt away from my skin to feel the air move across my damp body and I am cool for a moment. And although the loft is so very dry and hot there is something delicious about it, like the dry heat of Nevada that penetrates to the bone.  When I lay on the bales of hay and drink in that heat, the sweet smell, the peace, I know this a place not many can appreciate.  I sit now in the open door to the ladder and I look down upon the indoor recalling all the horses and ponies and students who have come and gone. There have been many busy evenings at this barn and this place above was a respite from the action.  Today it is quiet and rainy, and I am alone with the dogs. There is no one to call me down. I think if I had a blanket I could sleep up here in the clouds.  It is times like these I know it doesn't matter how often I ride. Instead, it is just the presence of the animals and the sanctuary of this place that will keep me coming back day after day.