A hidden gem in Malta

If you're as much of a horse fanatic as I am then the thought of going on holiday and not riding a horse, or even touching one for 7 days is a daunting process. Withdrawal symptoms are more than possible and to prevent these, I highly recommend getting out of the sun for a few hours and finding somewhere to ride.

I remember the first time I rode whilst in Malta. I was 7 years old, and on holiday with my Grandparents, who thankfully were equally as horse nutty as I am. They always respected how much I not only wanted to, but enjoyed being around horses. Being at the stables was and always has been my happy place.

So, when Grandad drove past the hidden gem of Golden Bay Horse Riding which is situated right next door to Golden Sands in Malta, he stopped the hire car, enquired how much it was for me to get my horsey fix and sent me on my way!

The first horse I rode with them was a gorgeous dapple grey pony that stood roughly at 14 hands. Ironically his name was dappled and also the horse that unleashed my love for dapple grey ponies.

The 2-hour ride on dappled will always stick in my memory, from waving good-bye to Grandad who was looking increasingly nervous that he'd just sent me off with complete strangers, on a strange horse, to remembering the terrain we rode across and how close I remember being to the cliff edge and being in complete awe of what I was seeing and experiencing.

In fact it was that good, I went back year after year. The following two years I requested Dappled and soon after that it was time for me to ride something bigger - a beautiful black horse called Pepsi that stunned me from the moment I met him. Following that I was greeted with a coloured cob type pony as I walked on the stable yard that went by the name of Del-Boy. A cheeky chap he reminded of my horse back home and I asked to ride him and instantly fell in love.

Year after year, I've visited Golden Bay Horse Riding and some trips to Malta have seen me visit for a horse fix more than once.

The rides are different to anything we can experience in England. You'll ride over terrain you would never expect your horse in the UK to tackle, but these horses are more than used to.

If you fancy something special whilst you're there then you can book more than your average hour ride, by booking onto the 90 minute sunset ride. Offering picturesque views of the sun setting down onto the Maltese Golden cliffs overlooking Gozo, you won't be disappointed.

Catering for beginners to experienced riders, there's horses for all abilities and those that can ride and want something a little more, there is the opportunity to canter where its safe.

If you're visiting Malta then I highly recommend looking them up and popping in. I can guarantee you won't be disappointed.

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Memories of Malta - dedicated to my two heroes!

Malta. Memories.

Memories of my first plane ride aged just 5, to land in Luqa Aiport holding my Mamma and Grandads hand. Greeted by the stoney buildings, in awe of a land far away from home.

Memories of returning every year from then, building sand castles on Golden Bay beach, taking photos covered in sun cream, ice lolly juice and sand stuck to my knobbly knees. Looking up in awe of the cliffs and one day riding one of the most beautiful horses Ive seen from Golden Bay Riding, trotting along the edge, looking down to waves crashing against rocks sat as still as can be. Soaking in the beauty of an island unknown to many but oh so familiar to me, whilst on horseback.

Memories of learning to use a video camera with Grandad at my side, at the time that was almost as big as my head whilst stood outside Mellieha Church, blinded by the blazing sun beating down upon the gravestones that lie tucked away waiting to be discovered.

Memories of my Mamma and Granddad introducing me to Our Lady of Mellieha and lighting a candle down almost too many steps to count, for the loved ones we've lost but always remember, especially when here, on land so peaceful.

Memories of taking a yellow bus down the windy roads, to end up in Buggiba. Buying gifts galore for family back home. Tea Towels, keyrings, souvenirs with the word 'Malta' inscribed.

Memories of growing up to appreciate the beauty this land beholds and each year appreciating it that bit more.

Memories of watching glass blowing and ornaments being made, standing by the roaring fires about to cook hand made sculptures carefully crafted by creative hands of the maltese cultures.

Memories of new friends made on Golden Bay beach, running in the cool but welcoming sea, jumping waves and giggling with delight as a splash cools pink, sunburnt legs.

Memories of falling to sleep in the sun and being woken to Granddad and Mamma shouting "you're going to burn!"and smiling with delight at my first 'grown up tan'.

Memories of trips out to the Marine Park to stroke a Dolphin and watch Sea Lions put on a display so enchanting.

Memories of hours spent in Popeye Village, laughing as Mamma and Grandad looked on whilst I squealed in delight at driving a boat and seeing a place so magnificent where films were made.

Memories of good times spent with Granddad and Grandma brought to an abrupt halt in May 2004. The year that saw three become two. Forever thankful for the place that allowed us to create so many photographs, videos, memories and being able to remember laughs once shared.

Memories of the first time going back as a two, this time taken by Dad and not Grandad. How landing on the runway felt, without the man that was my best friend sat next to me smiling with delight at coming back. The emptiness so loud.

Memories of feeling resentment that he couldn't share this one last time with us, but learning to hold onto the love he had for this place and carrying that on for him.

Memories of crossing over to Gozo on the ferry from Paradise Bay, watching the waves create patterns and sending the ferry up and down. Remembering the sound of cars driving off the ramp, onto a new Island ready for discovering.

Memories of swimming in the Blue Lagoon and looking through the Azure Window in awe of how a place can be so beautiful yet still so undiscovered.

Memories of not visiting for the first time one year and realising you hadn't missed or yearned for a place before.

Memories of walking hand-in-hand with my first love on Paradise Bay beach, thinking life was complete.

Memories of getting lost in time in the fairytale City, Mdina. Walking back in time in the medieval hilltop town.

Memories of walking through the Mellieha Air Raid Shelter with Dad, in silence. Listening to water droplets fall from the caves that hold more history and secrets.

Memories of waking up to find Mamma with sunburnt lips from too much sun the day before.

Memories of driving through the streets of the Island that holds so many secret treasures in a Jeep, with dad driving  and Mamma bouncing around in the back.

Memories of flying from America back to the place I love, alone.

Memories of lying on the beach at Paradise Bay, having ran away from life back home.

Memories of sitting in the speed boat from Paradise Bay to Comino, nursing a broken heart.

Memories of spending 10 days alone, on an Island that had soon become home.

Memories of finding myself.

Memories of love, laughter, relationships and bitter sweet moments spent both with people I love and alone.

Memories of Malta.

For more information visit the Air Malta website.

In loving memory of Grandad (2004) and Mamma (March 1927 - January 2017)

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"Everything will be okay in the end..." - Travelling 2016 part 4

(In case you missed part 3 of the travel blog, here it is!)



**

Friday started off rather hysterical. I'd moved from camping under the stars in the middle of the night to the front of the truck and to my delight (horror more like) woke up staring face-to-face with a mouse that seemed to be living in the truck!

The ride home was a little quieter than the ride out to cow camp; everyone was tired and ready for a nap however we were all quite excited to find out the results of the EU Referendum and were eager to get 3G again to find out!

Upon arriving home Cowboy Paul announced he was leaving and thankfully everyone gave me 10 minutes alone to speak to him. I hung on to him like there was no tomorrow, I sobbed into his chest whilst he held me and quite honestly everything that I'd been feeling over the last several months, every inch of struggle the last year had been.... it all came out.

Cowboy Paul held me for as long as I needed and quite honestly that's all I'd needed for so long; to be held as I cried and let it all out, to tell someone how I was about the unfairness of everything that happened and for someone to tell me it was all going to be okay ... and mean it.

After waving Paul off, Russell and I sat on the bench talking about the curveballs life throws at us, how we deal with them and how each individual deals with it in their own way. We sat for hours watching the sunset fall over the mountains just talking and sharing our plans for when we got home.

It was at that moment I realised I was truly done running, I was done hiding from my fears back home, hiding from reality and dealing with what I needed to. I was exhausted, truly exhausted from running; all I wanted to do was sleep and relax, then head back home and deal with everything head on and be stronger than I'd ever been before. I needed to take the leap of faith, I needed to do things that made me happy and follow my heart as well as my head.

It was at that moment I knew that tomorrow morning I was going for some me time and then I was going home to face my fears.

**

The next morning I went to the airport, sorted flights back home and whilst on the Salt Lake City to Amsterdam flight I booked a one way ticket to Malta for the same day as well as a Hotel and set out relaxing on a beach for a week!

I sat next to the most lovely guy on the Salt Lake to Amsterdam flight, he very kindly leant me his jacket to keep me warm on the long flight. We got talking and somehow its like he knew I wanted to talk and told me to pour my heart out to him. So I did..... I didn't know this guy, apart from he had the most beautiful wife, a young son, two gorgeous daughters and he was heading home from his last trip away from home for work before his whole family made a big move from South-Africa to America. His two daughters were at college and university in America already and he visited them he could and when he was there with work.

They were scared, they were apprehensive but most of all they were excited at the prospect of finally being a family that never had to be apart again. They were excited at planning their new future, but most of all to the next chapter in their lives.

He sat and he talked, he listened, he gave me advice and he let me sleep when I wanted to, watch the movie, eat in silence and then we talked some more. I'll genuinely never forget the advice he gave me, his kindness and his words of following my dreams, my heart and grasping life whilst I can.

**

Finally when I touched down in Manchester, I made the phone call to someone I needed to and waited for my flight to Malta, to finally relax, put the past behind me and enjoy some time to sleep and catch up on everything I'd missed over the last several months.

Whilst in Malta I visited the church Granddad, Mamma and I used to always make an effort to go to. I sat and listened to a maltese mass, sat in the peacefulness of the tranquil church and remembered the times I'd spent there with Granddad.

I spoke to him like he was sat next to me on the bench, I begged him to help me see why things happen and what the reasons are; I told him I trusted he was leading me on the right path and I told him I hoped I was making him proud.

I sat on the beach catching a tan, I spoke to varying people about the EU Referendum, I visited the church some more and I enjoyed taking the time to sort out what I wanted and realised although the fight in me was gone, I was still going to fight and you had to follow your heart and you had to believe you'd get what you wanted. But most of all, you had to realise...

Everything will be okay in the end. If it's not okay, this isn't the end.

...And when I got home, I started a new job and took the leap of faith into believing that everything will sort itself out

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"Catch a falling star and put it in your pocket, save it for a rainy day..." - Travelling 2016 part 3

(In case you missed part 2 of the travel blog, here it is!)

If we get hurt, our natural reaction is to fear that happening again. The niggling feeling in the back of your mind doesn't go away easily, the walls you build up in seconds take days, weeks, if not months to be knocked down. It isn't easy and anyone that ever pretends it is, is lying. Trust me.

But sometimes, things happen for a reason - I truly and honestly believe that. You might sit there at the time of being hurt, feeling distraught and think this is life forever; this is the way it's going to be. Trust me, it isn't. A few weeks ago I wrote a post called "25 things I wish I could tell my teenage self" and honestly, if I could go back to being 18, I'd tell myself losing loved ones, falling out with friends, losing partners, getting through everyday life when you feel like you're carrying the world on your shoulders, being in a job you aren't enjoying....it all hurts like hell, it's all confusing and there shouldn't be any shame in admitting that. Never.

Being on those plans on that 24 hour journey, all I wanted to do was write. I wanted to put into words how I was feeling, how things over the last 7 months had really gotten to me and how I felt like it was time to finally let it all go.

**

When I did finally get an hour to do nothing and relax, it felt nice to chat to someone that didn't mock how I was feeling or judge what I was saying. He just sat and listened, nodded in the right places and then offered his piece of advice.

Getting ready for the rodeo that evening I finally felt like a huge weight had been lifted from my shoulders and was excited for the evening with everyone. Anyone that doesn't enjoy a rodeo in my eyes is absolutely bonkers; the atmosphere is always amazing and you can guarantee a real buzz around the grandstands. Honestly, if you get the opportunity to visit one....go!!

For the first time in what felt like forever I put on some make up that evening, curled my hair and basically spruced myself up with a dress and my cowboy boots. It felt like a far cry from the dirty, exhausted, make up free me I'd spent the last few days being.

Before the rodeo, we headed for some dinner at a local cowboy bar in Meteetse which are ever so friendly. They are the most welcoming bunch in there and by the end had us lining up at the bar posing for photos and asking if we wanted to make our own shots and cocktails, whilst making shots for us and telling us to down them! We had an absolute blast and took far too many pictures, but it was fantastic nonetheless!

Once we arrived at the rodeo, we quickly got to our seats and set ourselves down for the next couple of hours. Given the fantastic opportunity to watch bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing and much more, I had the time of my life that evening cheering everyone on and enjoying the atmosphere. If there's one thing I'd love to try it would have to be bronc riding - I have absolutely no idea why as I completely get its dangerous, wild and not something someone like me would usually say, however I have always wanted to give it a go! Maybe one day....

As we sat watching the rodeo the sun began to set over the Wyoming mountains and Cody stadium, which made for some beautiful pictures. I couldn't help but sit there and for a few moments reflect on all that had happened and how peaceful it was to be out here.

However, all too soon the rodeo was over and it was time to head into Cody and to my favourite place - the Silver Dollar Bar! I have some wonderful memories of time spent in that bar with good friends I'd made whilst on my last trip to Cody and was eager to revisit. With a Vodka and Lemonade, we all sat around the tables sharing our best bits from the rodeo and our plans for the up and coming weekend, before heading to the back of the bar to play some pool with local cowboys.

I ended up chatting to a local cowboy who happened to be the rodeo announcer as well, which was lovely! However, before long and too many Vodkas later, it was time to head back to the ranch!

*

The plan for Thursday was to ride to Cow camp and then camp overnight there, get up early and ride back before the afternoon sun. We threw our overnight bags and any essentials into a bin liner and into the truck and then all got our horses ready for the long ride there. In my wisdom I decided that because we'd be riding all day and exposed to the sun I'd wear a vest top and try to get as much of a tan as I could whilst I had the chance seeing as not much sunbathing was being done! Cowboy Paul took one look at me and told me to put a shirt on, but I told him I had factor 30 suncream in my saddle bag and I'd be absolutely fine. He argued I'd get sunburnt and be moaning soon enough about the heat, but I argued back I would be fine and I wanted to top up my tan...

Take it from me readers, ALWAYS listen to a cowboy. Because they know. Don't ask me how they know, they just know....

Before long it was time to go and Tina and I took up our position at the back of the ride, ready for a steady march over to Cow Camp. As we climbed up mountains, negotiated our way on rocky terrain and tackled obstacles I sometimes had to close my eyes at I couldn't help but smile at the thought of getting a tan and how brown I was beginning to look! What I completely forgot and didn't even think of was the fact I had my sunglasses on......

So, sure enough, roughly 4 hours into my ride, I noticed my left hand starting to swell and upon taking my sunglasses off I realised my lovely brown tan wasn't in fact brown but more a bright shade of red. And the worst news? We were still 4 hours from Cow Camp...

Needless to say I spent the next 4 hours rather quiet, feeling poorly and struggling with an ever-growing hand from the sunburn and rubbing factor 30 into every inch of me that was exposed every 20 odd minutes. By this point though the damage was done and I was going to get the most hideous tan lines anyone could imagine. Joy; just the sexy, American, glow I'd always wanted.....

By the time we reached Cow camp, I was in agony and Paul took great delight in telling me the words I didn't want to hear "I told you so" but thankfully allowed me to flop down on a chair for an hour in the shade upon realising I really wasn't making up how poorly I felt. I downed more water than ever over that hour and sat with my sunglasses on closing my eyes, trying to feel better.

An hour in the shade with some water definitely did the trick and we all had a nice dinner that had been prepared earlier. The group commented they'd never seen me eat so much as I did that night and despite feeling more than ready for bed it was soon time to set the tents up and gather some wood for the campfire we were going to have.

I'll never, in a million years forget the moments we all experienced and shared that evening around the campfire, but most of all I'll never forget Cowboy Paul singing Country songs to us amidst the warm glow of the fire with the crackling of wood every few minutes. It was pure bliss, it was beautiful and its one of those moments that words just simply cannot describe.

I pulled up another chair, got in my sleeping bag and made my self comfortable so I was half lying down and half sitting up, but able to look up at the stars and quite honestly that's when it happened for me.

It's during those next few moments and hours staring up at the stars listening to the horses munching around us, snorting every once in a while, that I realised something had to change; I had to change. I'd spent the last 6-12 months unhappy from varying events. I'd let it rule my life, my happiness and my opportunity to meet someone else because a part of me always hoped that this wouldn't be permanent and things would be given another chance. I'd had the opportunity (in a roundabout way) to give something else a go, and because of the unhappiness following January, because of the ever impending question... "what if...?" I stopped myself from being truly happy.

There were so many opportunities I'd passed, so many nights out with friends I'd declined because I couldn't be bothered and relationships with friends I'd let slip because they always asked that dreaded question and I hated answering it...

There and then I made sure that tomorrow would be a turning point and I'd stop worrying about the future, about the fact I'd made all these plans at 18 for where I would be at 25. The house I didn't have yet, the steady boyfriend, the dog, the career I wanted..... it was all superficial. It wasn't important, yet it took me flying half way around the world to realise that.

And in that moment when everyone was asleep, and the crackling of the fire was slowly decreasing, the smoke was beginning to rise and the glow from the fire was slowly going out leaving the silhouettes of the tents fading deeper into the night I thought of the one person I wanted to tell me things were going to be okay and I thought of the one person I wanted to hug and sit up talking to - I thought of my Granddad......

.... and, although you'll think i'm making it up because you just couldn't write it, or get anyone to believe you because they'd think you'd gone crazy; in the next moment I saw a shooting star, made my wish and fell to sleep knowing that wherever I was in the world, Granddad was near.

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"One moment when you stand on your own" - Travelling 2016 Part 2

(In case you missed Part 1 of the blog, here it is!)

I sat on those planes and I did nothing but think. The journey to Vegas from Manchester was just shy of 10 hours and gave me plenty of thinking time. In between watching films such as "How to be Single" which made me sob into my travel pillow (that film is my life over the last 12 months - i'm not even kidding), and napping on and off, I reflected quite a lot on how things have changed for me even since January and how it's time to change something.

Quite honestly I think in the weeks leading to America I panicked. There was a situation I wanted to sort out. A situation I had panicked in and become somebody I'm not to someone for fear of being hurt like I was back in January, but I realised during that journey you can't live in constant fear; you can't tar everyone with the same brush and presume one persons going to do the same as another because it's not fair.

But this is what this trip was about. I wasn't running away from my problems like I'd been told, I knew I wasn't going for three months because I wanted to come home, make amends with someone and hopefully move from there. I was simply going to enable me to come home and start a fresh. Put the first 6 months of 2016 behind me, and come home ready to be honest with those around me and hopefully get what I wanted. This far from happened, but more on that later.

**

Cowboy Paul was every bit of what I remember from my trip last year. He spoke with such softness and meaning as he asked me how I'd ended up here again and told me all about the events which had happened in his part of the world over the last 9 months.

I told him I wanted a cowgirl hat this time and before meeting up with the group he took me around endless shops, trying on hats with me, telling me which colour I looked good in and which didn't suit me at all. We laughed, giggled and soon the conversation turned from serious to funny. Paul has always been a good listening ear; I remember back last year we spent several hours riding next to one another just talking and whilst he offers the best advice, he never presses for information but always knows what to say in reply. Sometimes his responses make you think "why on earth has he said that", but I soon learnt, once you pick it apart, they have meaning and clarity.

The group took a while to shop some more so once I'd gotten my hat we found some children outside one of the shops selling lemonade and had a couple of cups. It amazes me how different this country is to ours and it makes you wonder if Britain will ever be safe enough to let its children sit outside some shops selling lemonade to make some money.

Finally it was time to head back to the ranch and for Paul to give me an american driving lesson back to the ranch. I wasn't overly impressed with having to drive straight away having just had the most hectic 24 hours of my life, but I did it. When I told my mum and sister I'd finally arrived they both replied telling me to go and rest for a couple of hours as I hadn't had chance to at all, with all the stress of getting there. My reply went something along the lines of "you've got to be kidding, as if that'll happen" and I was right as upon arrival I was told after lunch we were going riding. I was exhausted and quite honestly felt the least enthusiastic about riding as I'd ever felt.

I was given the lovely Hazel to ride at first. Standing at roughly 15.2 hands and a true lady, Hazel gave me a lovely ride in the round pen. My friends back home weren't surprised to find she was a coloured as I always seem drawn to them! She was mannerly, responsive and very much like the lovely Tina that I'd fallen in love with last year, just seemed to love doing her job!

After a couple of hours playing tag and several other things in the round pen we were told we were off to round the cows up and send them up into the mountains a little more. I couldn't help but think I'd much rather be riding Tina when doing that as I know how much she loves it and how much I enjoy herding the cattle on her, however Hazel seemed just as eager and equally as competent. By now the sun was starting to set and I hadn't realised the time at all until I took my phone out to take a picture. It was 9pm in the evening and home seemed like a world away.

I sat in silence watching the sunset in front of me and home seemed the topic at the forefront of my mind. I couldn't help but think about the texts I wanted to send, but was struggling to find the words for and more.

Thankfully after another half hour in the saddle the cows were where they needed to be and we turned for home. I was exhausted, jet lagged and couldn't think of anything better than getting into my sleeping bag and hopefully waking up the next day slightly more refreshed and ready to go!

I slept like a log that evening but woke up the next day feeling more tired than ever. I always seem to struggle with jet lag - more so on the way home, but I think I'd been feeling so exhausted lately that it was finally catching up with me.

Tuesday was another filled day, with us first getting up to do chores and then heading out to get our horses prepared to drive to the cassie trail, which is a beautiful ride. It was an eventful morning as we watched the stallion cover two mares in the hope that both would become pregnant, rather than just one. He was slightly confused and frustrated when it then came to putting him on the trailer with the same mare next to him, but after a bit of kicking and testosterone flying around, it was decided the safest thing to do would be to move him to the front of the trailer with just a gelding, close the small partition and then put the mares at the back. Mind you, who can blame him!

The cassie trail is a beautiful ride, the trail leads you up several steep tracks until you get to the top where you can see for miles over the mountains. It really is breathtaking and despite it being my third time up there it still stopped me in my tracks and took my breath away, exactly like it did the first time. There really are no words to describe the views and no photograph anyone takes will ever do it justice. You really do feel on top of the world, quite literally. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and those in the group that weren't riders were pleased with their achievements of riding up there.

Soon enough it was time to head back down and load up ready to go back to the ranch. Once back, Hannah the wrangler and I had to take a couple of horses to the vets in the nearby town roughly half an hour away. A couple were having routine checks for an up and coming clinic, and another seemed to have an infection in the leg, so Hannah wanted him to get checked out to ensure there was nothing underlying going on. It was also the perfect opportunity for me to pop into the petrol station and grab some bits to eat and coke - there's only so much water you can drink!

The vets were absolutely lovely and intrigued to know about the veterinary centres back home and whether ours differed to theirs. It was great to have a chat with them and one things for sure - american veterinary centres don't seem to be half as busy as ours!

Finally we headed back to the ranch, had dinner and before long it was bed time ready to get up early the next day to ride the North fence!

*

A 5am start the next day wasn't on my agenda but it was nice to wake up just as the sun was rising, but a shame I missed it with the camera. I'd asked if I could ride Tina as I was quite keen to get back on her and have a good canter.

By 6am we were all loaded up in the trailer and on our way to the North fence. The plan was to ride around it all, check if anywhere needed patching up and then wrangle the horses there from one field to another. Tina was an absolute pro at wrangling horses and I loved nothing more than wrangling them on her - she was fantastic.

It was nice to get to know one of the other group members a bit more as we spent most of the ride chatting about why we were here and so on, but it made a nice difference than riding alone, which is what I usually end up doing.

After we'd checked the fence it was time to wrangle the horses back in. Plan A didn't quite go as we'd hoped, so I shouted to Paul to take over from me as lead horse and I'd go behind the horses to push them. Thankfully he agreed and I finally got my chance to do more than a walk on Tina and off we went into a canter, pushing the horses forward and scooting left or right to direct the strays back into the group.

I can't describe the thrill you get when it comes to wrangling and everything goes to plan. There isn't a feeling quite like chasing the horses and pushing them to where they need to be, watching them gallop there and knowing you've helped do that. Once we'd got the horses into their other field the vibes throughout the group was fantastic - for them it was the first time they'd experienced something like it and I was on cloud 9 that I'd gotten to experience it again.

Before long we were loading up and heading back to the ranch. One thing I really wanted to do that I regretted not doing the last time I was in America is having a go at driving the truck and pulling the trailer, so I asked Paul if I could drive home. He looked at me like I was absolutely bonkers (I hope my driving wasn't that bad monday!) but allowed me to have a go. Slightly nervous, I pulled off but soon enough realised it was easier than I thought it was and I began to relax!

Back at the ranch we were given the opportunity to ride a horse we hadn't ridden before. For me, the obvious choice was Stanley the stallion as I'd always wanted to have a go. Again, he'd covered a couple of mares in the morning so was a little full of it to say the least. To be quite honest he absolutely finished me off as he spent the best part of our ride bucking and just wanting to head to the mares. However, who can fault him - it's his natural reaction. It was a different ride to what I'm used to, to say the least and by the end of it I was absolutely exhausted. How the stallions are taught to be ridden with mares here compared to there is very different and I must admit, I'm not used to the way we were told to deal with him.

After a while I was exhausted and having not had a proper rest since getting there, I got off and headed outside to the pool to grab some sun and relaxation before it was time to get ready for the Rodeo that evening. I spent the afternoon chatting to another group member again about life back home and our backgrounds which was nice, but it felt good to finally get some make up on and head to the local bar for a drink and then onto the Rodeo for an evening out!

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“ Go, fly free like a bird and sort your head” - Travelling 2016 Part 1

As I’m sat writing this in a hotel room in Malta, I can’t help but reflect on how I actually got here or if I’m about to wake from some dream and find its all not been reality, like you see in the movies. 

These last couple of weeks have felt like a whirlwind that’s failed to stop; in fact the last 6 months have felt like that, and this trip was supposed to put a halt to it all. 

On the morning of my departure to America, where I was heading for just shy of a month, I received a text from someone that I hoped I'd hear from before I went, that simply read something along the lines of “sort your head out whilst you’re away”, and whilst that's what I intended to do, I wanted to tell them I think I knew what my head was telling me. But more on that later.

**

Saturday before leaving for America was every bit of hectic that it should be. I finally got around to packing at about 9:30 that evening which is just me all over; laid back and in no real rush. What was the point, I was on holiday! 

At this moment in time, I had no real idea if I was going for a month or three. Deep down I knew it would be only a month because I thought I had a reason to come home, and whilst people thought I needed the time to think what I wanted, I knew what I wanted but I just didn’t say anything - which in hindsight is something I massively regret doing - or not doing in this case. 

So, off I went at a ridiculous early time Sunday morning and mentally prepared myself for the 24 hours it would take to get to Cody. The route I was taking was Manchester to Las Vegas, then onto Salt Lake City and then onto Cody, where I’d be picked up and driven the hours drive to the ranch by the intern / wrangler. 

Everything was going swimmingly and I was excited, if not a little apprehensive, but predominately excited about my impending trip away; a real chance to escape life, work, stress, a relationship that had hindered the first two months of my year and so on. The flight to Las Vegas was easy and stress free however upon getting into arrivals this soon became a distant memory and my dislike for anything Vegas started. 

Firstly whilst going through customs I was one of the people to be stopped and randomly questioned before being allowed to enter the US border. I will tell you now, it was single handedly the most scariest moment of my life, being questioned and asked what was in my luggage, my purpose for travel and so on. Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t like you see on TV where you get taken into a separate room, but I must have been there for half an hour and the whole time, despite having nothing to declare, I was quite literally crapping myself! 

Once through I very naively expected all major airports in America would be like the one I experienced in Washington and all I’d have to do with my luggage is collect it and literally move it from one conveyor belt to another. How wrong was I…quite literally, so wrong! I walked to the connecting flight conveyor belt and check in desk for luggage straight after my customs escapade, to find no one was there, all the Delta staff had gone and I’d need to go from the terminal I was in, to another terminal a 10 minute drive away and re-check my bags again. 

Dressed for English weather, and with everyone in that terminal point blank refusing to take responsibility or help with my 3 huge cases, I had to go outside, wait for a shuttle bus and then go to the other terminal. My saviours came in the form of a couple that helped me with my bags when everyone else just watched as I struggled to move them and was amidst a meltdown…or about to have one! 

Finally after running around like headless chickens and the 5 hour waiting time I had in vegas, now down to an hour and a half I managed to get checked in and through security again. What an absolute nightmare! At this point I thought nothing else could go wrong and I’d soon be on my way to Cody. How wrong could I be. 

With not much time to go, I thought I’d find my gate for the connecting flight to Salt Lake City, and then visit a nearby cafe or shop and grab some food. Thankfully I did as all of a sudden they were announcing the flight to Salt Lake was broken and they’d be putting on a replacement, but people with connection flights from Salt Lake needed to see the staff immediately so we could be sorted first. Cue a mad dash into line, to end up standing near an English couple that oddly enough turns out they live just a mere 20 minutes from me and we have endless mutual friends! Again though, more on that later!

After being in line for what felt like hours, we were told all those with connecting flights after Salt Lake needed to get to another plane and quick! So, sticking like glue to the English couple, we ran as fast as we could to another Salt Lake City flight and waited in line amongst lots of rather irritated passengers, not really having a clue whats going on! Eventually they started letting people on the flight, got down to just two people in front of us and then announced the flight was full. WHAT? I was watching the time and realising at this point if we didn’t leave soon I’d miss my connecting flight to Cody, which was an absolute nightmare! 

I messaged the ranch to let them know and they said they’d leave the van at the airport for me to drive back to the ranch, which resulted in me going into a blind mad panic about driving in America having never done it before, driving on the wrong side of the road AND driving an automatic. Trust me, it did nothing for my nerves at that point! 

Anyway, the three of us slowly walked back to the previous check in desk under instruction to find we were being put up in a Vegas hotel for the night and we’d be put on new flights the next day. Which is all well and good being put up in a hotel in Vegas, but this was fast becoming a nightmare and I found myself just wanting to go home. 

The English couple shall forever be my main saviours that day as they shared a taxi with me to the hotel, helped argue when we were told we wouldn't be receiving our bags that evening and so on. They looked after me no end and I shall always be grateful for their help. 

Not wanting to waste my night in Vegas, I ended up playing a few games of Roulette before resorting to bed in the same clothes I’d spent the last 24 hours in and downing a rather refreshing vodka and lemonade. 

Roulette - or anything Casino related in Vegas is different to that of the Casinos you find in England. The buzz is something I can’t describe and people from all walks of life sit around the tables throwing anything from five dollars to hundred dollar bills at the person in charge, exchanging it for chips. I love roulette, it’s probably one of my guilty pleasures in life and soon enough I was onto a winning streak and found myself $40 up! Getting tired and not wanting to loose all my winnings, I decided to call it quits and head back to bed. 

The following morning, with no sleep and still in the same clothes, a phone call to my hotel room arrived from the lovely couple and we met for breakfast at 7am. One thing that makes me think I could live in America is their breakfasts. They are quite frankly out of this world! I had the biggest waffle you’ve seen, topped with strawberry’s, cream and syrup - it was to die for! 

Soon enough we were heading back to the airport and boarding our flight finally to Salt Lake City! It was a nice surprise to find i’d be been upgraded to 1st class - mind you its the least that could have been done for all the stress I’d experienced over the last 24 hours with even getting to America. 

After we touched down, it was time to hug the lovely couple I’d met and jump on the flight to Cody - after several hours, broken flights, tears and much more, I was finally on my way to be met at the airport by Cowboy Paul. 

I don’t think I’ve dropped my stuff and ran to jump into someones hug so fast before. Paul is one of those people that i’ll forever be grateful for getting the chance to know. He’s full of wisdom, great stories, advice and is one of the nicest men I’m sure i’ll ever meet. Soon enough we were catching up about events that had happened in the last 8 months, both for me and him, whilst on our way to meet the rest of the group. 

**

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HorseWorks, Wyoming - Living life as a Cowgirl - part 5

I can't believe it's all coming to an end and this is the last and final instalment in my Horseworks adventure. However, it doesn't end there! Next up is my adventure in New York, which I'll get around to writing in the next few days. Thank you everyone who has followed, supported and read my Horseworks story, you've no idea how much I appreciate it.

Here goes....

Friday

Today started off slightly slower, with Hannah, Jess, MaeCile and Nate all out and with just Kerry, Hugh, Kathrin and I left we took the time to slowly make our way through chores and I packed the remainder of my stuff before we left for Cody to pick up our hire car for the weekend to go to Billings. Driving away from the ranch and unsure whether I'd return again was a particularly hard moment. I had made sure I made my way down to Tina to spend some final moments giving her (unwanted) cuddles and telling her I'm sure I'd see her again one day. I spent a few moments alone just looking around, listening to the wildlife and breathing all that I'd experienced here in. Ive always thought that when people come back from trips telling their friends they've had the opportunity to learn new things about themselves is complete rubbish - but is genuinely how I feel. 2015 has been one of the most challenging years to date for me as I've made those drastic changes I began this post with, but sitting here, it felt like I was finally ready to head back to England and face whatever life was about to throw at me next.

Once we arrived at Cody we headed to Mc Donalds and then to pick up our car. Hugh and I sat in the front with me in charge of the music and him obviously in charge of driving. We had a fun car journey with Kathrin sleeping (that girl sleeps anywhere!), Kerry in the back giving directions and Hugh and I singing along and taking stupid snapchats.

Once in Billings, Montana, the 4 of us checked into our hotel room (we all shared for cost reasons, which was interesting!) and attempted to book tickets for the evening rodeo. However, we soon discovered there was $6-8 booking fee per ticket if booked over the phone or online, so Hugh and I got the map out and drove to the rodeo grounds to buy the tickets in person. It wasn't far and we could at least then gauge an idea of where we were going that evening. When there we both decided to book us into the most expensive seats and right at the front, with assurance from the lady behind the counter telling us we would have the most amazing night in those seats. I was ridiculously excited as this was another big thing on my bucket list that I was so keen to cross off. It's been a goal of mine to go to a rodeo for as long as I can remember and I could not believe it was finally happening!

Before long we were back and getting ready with several groans from Hugh that it took girls so long to decide what to wear. Admittedly I think I changed my outfit a few times, but finally we were all ready to go and meet up with Hannah and Jess who were also staying in the same hotel as us.

The rodeo was amazing and the lady behind that counter was right - we had a fantastic evening being so close to where everything was happening. We could literally lean down and touch the horses and regularly got face-fulls of dirt when the horses or bulls went past at speed. Somehow the rodeo clown ended up picking our tourist look about us out and introduced us to the rest of the crowd as being from Britain which was entertaining. My mouth hung open in complete awe all evening as we watched bull riding, bronc riding, team roping, calf tie down, barrel racing and then kids having a go at catching and riding an unbroken shetland. Much to my mothers disappointment it made me even more keen to give barrel racing and possibly bronc riding a go. I guess I must just be bonkers!

Following the rodeo Hannah and Jess told us about a bar, Daisy Dukes, they were heading to with some cowboy friends, so we of course joined them! Some local cowboys took it upon themselves to teach us to dance and were very friendly. I was more interested in dancing like I knew how with Kathrin and Hugh all evening and had such a laugh. We all had a lovely evening and I particularly enjoyed the line-dancing; having done a fair bit as a child I felt like I knew what I was doing - which is a first when it comes to dancing!

Saturday

This morning started off very relaxed with us all leisurely getting up and taking it in turn to shower before heading out to breakfast. As it happens the restaurant said we would have to wait at least 30 minutes for a table so decided to order breakfast to go and sat in Jess's room on the bed watching a film with our breakfast on our lap instead. Soon enough it was time to head back to Cody where Hugh and I were staying in a hotel for the evening because I had to leave at 6am the next morning to catch my flight to New York. It was a nice drive back again with me in the front deciding which music to put on, Hugh driving, Kathrin fast asleep, Kerry giving directions and Jess who was catching a lift back with us also zonked! Before long I was also fast sleep and poor Kerry and Hugh had to navigate us back to Cody just between the two of them.

After we picked our car back up, Jess took Hugh and I back to our hotel for the evening whilst the rest of the group went to the cinema. Hugh and I managed a lovely couple of hours nap - or more, I napped for a few hours whilst he caught up with some sports on TV! After catching up on the sleep we had decided to meet as a group again and go for one last dinner with me there. It was finally hitting me that I would be leaving tomorrow and really didn't want to. I was dreading going to New York alone and having to spend 3 days a tourist, alone with no company, but also slightly excited at seeing the City that never sleeps.

We decided on a steak house restaurant that served some lovely food and caught up about what had been our favourite part of the trip. Mine had definitely been the rodeo as well as wrangling alone with Jess that day. Unfortunately following dinner it was time for Hugh and I to head back to the hotel, some sad goodbyes and lots of promises to everyone, with Kathrin in particular that I would stay in touch. It was nice to have company for the evening as I can imagine had I been alone it would have been a rather emotional evening at the prospect of leaving a place I had come to love.

*

Never in a million years did I expect I would be given the opportunity to visit such an eye-opening, beautiful and breathtaking place in the middle of America, nor end up loving it as much as I did. Both MaeCile and Nate are two of the most welcoming people I have ever met and upon getting home MaeCile reminded me that Horseworks would always be a home away from home to those who wanted it to be. Honestly? That's the only way to describe it. Your stay at Horseworks doesn't feel like a stay in someone else's home, it doesn't feel like a stay in a hotel - it feels like you're in the comfort of your own home, but with the extras that this fascinating part of the world has to offer.

I've crossed various bits off my bucket list - some more comical than others and some goals that have always been childhood dreams I never envisaged I'd ever get the opportunity to have a go at. Horseworks does exactly this for you; it opens your eyes to the bigger picture, it gives you the chance to explore not only your abilities but also you as well. When leaving the ranch, I didn't leave with sadness nor regret for anything I hadn't managed to do - I left with the sense of peacefulness and tranquility this place has to offer and the feeling that no matter how far into the future, I would be back. MaeCile is right, this place has become a home away from home for me and in 10, 20 or even 50 years time when I look back and remember the memories I created at Horseworks, I'll always look back with a sense of achievement and euphoria - for MaeCile, Nate and Horseworks made many of my wildest dreams come true and for that I owe them more than they can ever imagine. A place where dreams do become reality and a place where friends become family - Horseworks will always hold a special part in my heart.

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HorseWorks, Wyoming - Living life as a Cowgirl - part 4

If you missed parts 1, 2 or 3 of my Wyoming adventure then you can click on the links to read them!

I can't believe the end of my adventure is near - but for now, enjoy part 4 of my trip!

Sunday

We all had such a good day together in Yellowstone National Park today. Despite spending a whole day out on the park we only managed to drive around half of it. If you're thinking of visiting, I'd definitely recommend doing an overnight stay somewhere in the park so you can get to see as much as possible. We all thoroughly enjoyed our day and definitely saw some special sights that I couldn't wait to show everyone back home the photos of. Yellowstone is simply a breathtaking place that has hundreds of little secret pulling in places which all give you the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the place. I've never been to a place so fascinating and mesmeric in all my life; the waterfalls, nature, animals in their natural habitats and everything else, it was so tranquil and peaceful.


We walked several miles and by the end of the day my feet were beginning to complain that they would much rather sit down, but we saw things today that will stay with me forever and what made it even more special was being able to share it with the rest of the group.

Monday

Today was categorically awesome. After two of the group members went out wrangling this morning with Hannah and Jess it transpired that none of the horses were on the property, meaning that the fence we put up last week still wasn't stopping the pesky bunch from escaping.

So, it was back to the hay field to wrangle them home which we all knew would mean an opportunity to have a canter - perfect! The horses almost cooperated and only veered off slightly, but despite that it was fun having to go and fetch them again. I think its safe to say that today we rather went for it and got our chance to give our mounts a good leg stretch. Tina loved it, she never ceases to amaze me  as she heads up the front of the herd and manages to keep up, despite being several hands smaller than the rest.

Tina quite literally just went for it. This pony just knows what she's got to do and just does it - no questions asked. You can tell she loves her job and thoroughly relishes in being up at the front herding the rest of the horses. It's starting to hit me that in less than a week I'll no longer be on the ranch and I'm going to have to say say good-bye to this pony I've fallen in love with. There's nothing I wouldn't give to be able to take her back to England, but unfortunately with transportation and quarantine costs so high, it just wouldn't be possible. Plus, she wouldn't have a "job" back home in England like she does here; I'm not sure she's the type to be someones family pet.

The moment we began wrangling the horses home we all began to cheer at the opportunity to do something we all could only dream about doing back home. I couldn't help but laugh out loud and smile to myself as the feeling of being in control of all those horses and playing a part in getting them from one place to another in such an old fashioned way is just overwhelming.

After lunch a yellow school bus full of children from the local came for their last session with MaeCile. They were given the chance to groom, tack up the ponies and then were asked to check each others tacking up skills and point out any faults. It wasn't about picking faults, but more seeing where they could improve. MaeCile and Nate are huge believers in encouraging rather than demotivating those who want to learn and as I looked around the group I could see each child watching and listening to MaeCile like she was the only person in the corral - all with admiration and keen to learn.

The children were split into two groups, with one being the beginner group who we were asked to lead, whilst the others practiced leading the colts and foals. Before they had arrived, Jess and I had been tasked with catching and putting halters on the colts which made for an interesting half hour! None wanted to be caught and thought it was a fun game running around the corral and hiding behind their mum's!

Finally, after lots of walking, chatting to the children and posing for various photos it was time to put the horses to bed and head back up to the ranch ourselves. We were all very tired and so decided tonight was going to be a movie night and all us girls could have the opportunity to drool over the cowboys in "The Longest Ride". I don't think I realised how tired I was until I woke up wedged between poor Kathrin and Hugh on the sofa to the credits rolling and everyone declaring it was bed time. The both of them had acted as rather comfy pillows for me and I'd had the best 2 hours sleep after sinus pain and no sleep the night before!

Tuesday

Another important goal of mine on the famous bucket list was to learn to barrel race, so you can imagine my delight when after groundwork Jess started to put some barrels out and promised to show us how it was done. She started by explaining the do's and dont's of barrel racing, when you would get any penalties and explaining the pattern. Surprisingly there was more to it than I initially thought and whilst a friend and I have previously described it as similar to Pony Club games, I was keen to learn it was actually very different, with a high level of skill required.

Once we had all memorised the pattern and gotten our competitive hats on we decided to have a few goes whilst each person took it in turn to take photos on my camera. I was rather keen to have a canter through the sequence but unfortunately the ground was quite slippy, so we had to stick to trot. Nonetheless Tina proved once again what an agile and keen pony she is and took it all in her stride.

All too soon it was time to head back to the corral and by this point I was feeling even more poorly and sleepy than I had the day before. I knew what was wrong and after speaking to MaeCile she suggested someone take me into Cody so I could go to the Doctors and get some antibiotics. Hugh very kindly offered to drive and Kathrin as a doctor, came along for the drive and to pick up some bits from town. They were both very sweet with Hugh offering to come in to see the doctor with me, whilst Kathrin went off shopping, however I decided it was best to leave him in the waiting room, but was thankful for the offer of company. As it turns out I did need antibiotics and was sent on my way with a diagnosis of tonsillitis and sinusitis, accompanied by some antibiotics and a $150 bill that I now had to claim back from my insurance. I think it all adds to the experience of this trip and was rather keen to share my experiences of going to an American doctors when back home. Once again, they all loved my very British accent and I lost count of how many times they laughed at the way I say Paracetamol. Unfortunately our wait in Walmart for antibiotics was seemingly a long one, which was frustrating as we were supposed to be going out for a sunset ride. However, after a quick text to Hannah and Jess it turned out they were also running late and this was cancelled meaning I could take my time looking round the shop - with a very frustrated Hugh in tow that he hated shopping with girls!

Wednesday

I am rather conscious that I've started every day off with "today was amazing" or "today was the best day ever". I think for anyone thinking of booking a holiday to stay with MaeCile and Nate who is reading this, you've got to realise that everyday spent on the ranch really is something special - and I'm not just saying that because I've been given the opportunity to write for them, or because I want so desperately to go back (I do, but, that's a different story). Horseworks is a typical working ranch that portrays real life living in Wyoming. You could easily pick to go to a ranch with a hot tub and en-suites in your bedrooms, but would you be getting a real taste of cowboy and Wyoming life? The simple answer to that is no. No two days are the same on Horseworks, but equally no day is boring or mundane or even not worth documenting. It's all been so special for me up until now and each day I learn something new about this beautiful country and the culture around where I am staying.

Today was another good day, we were all up bright eyed and bushy tailed ready for early morning chores and the excitement of riding somewhere new. We tacked the horses up and then loaded them into the trailer with the plan of heading over to the Cassie trail for a ride. A beautiful trail, surrounded by stunning scenery and nature at its finest, the Cassie trail is something special. The views reminded me a lot of Cow Camp and I eagerly got my camera out at several opportunities to grab some photos and help remember this extraordinary place.

The flatter land on the Cassie trail allowed for some fantastic canters, both individually and and as a group. It was great to have the chance to canter out as a group as this is something we haven't done much of apart from when herding the horses. I always think there's something extra special and exciting about being able to canter out in a large group. I suppose it's the thrill of hearing the hoofbeats coming up behind you and sharing that moment with those around you. Everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy themselves and it made a nice change to rise away from the ranch a little more.

All too soon our ride was over and we arrived back at the trailer just before lunch. The plan for the rest of the afternoon was to finish our chores and then prepare to go out in the evening for our last night out as a whole group as two of the team were leaving on Friday.

We all had a lovely evening out at the Cowboy Bar in Meteetse again. Over the last two weeks I'd gotten several opportunities to have bets with Kathrin and Hugh and each time I'd just say "oh buy me a drink" so I used tonight as my chance to cash these in. The three of us spent the evening playing pool, laughing and joking and watching another of our group member get friendly with a local cowboy. It's not at all relevant but I want tonight documenting as the night I managed to beat Hugh in a game of pool - never in my life have I beat a man at Pool - and if he says he let me win, this is definitely not true!

As I sat down to give my feet a rest it dawned on me that in just a few days we would all be splitting up and going back to our everyday lives. Clare and Charlotte were heading back to England on Friday, I was heading to New York on Sunday and the rest had a couple of days left at the ranch, but were then moving on to different adventures. It was bittersweet to reminisce about the days we had spent together, enjoying our once-in-a-lifetime trip and all the memories we had all created and shared with one another. I would definitely miss this.

Thursday

Today we were given the chance to have a small lie-in. When I say lie-in, this means chores and everything must still be done by about 8:45. I wanted to shower before everyone else, so I was up at the crack of dawn again but at least feeling refreshed and ready for our final day as a group.

We all were keen to have various photos taken of us donning the cowboy hat and boots, so I offered to be photographer and asked people to pose in different positions whilst I snapped away. Kathrin very kindly offered to take some photos of me and Tina which have come out lovely. I particularly like the more natural ones of us both in the corral - it is going to be a bittersweet and tough time leaving this pony behind.

Several photos and poses later it was time to go out and wrangle the horses back one last time. We had all had so much fun doing it previously that we asked if we could have one last go. Thankfully MaeCile is very understanding of our requests and asked Hannah and Jess to let some horses out the night before, then push them further afield early that morning. Today we were being left to it and it was up to us alone to wrangle the horses back to the ranch. The girls were there if we needed them, but this time we were effectively on our won - yeeha!

Upon finding the horses I could feel Tina begin to pull and I knew that she knew what was coming up. Everything started off well and as a group we seemed to have everything under control - however I spoke too soon and before we knew it the horses found a gap in the fence and made their way up a rather large mountain until we could no longer see them. At this point I knew there was no way Clare would want to go up there and it wouldn't have been fair to expect her to on her last ride. Thankfully Jess and Hannah intervened and some of us began to make our way up the mountain to get the horses. I had ended up at the back and as I watched their horses slip and slide on some rocks I was sceptical about whether we would all make it up there; Hugh was also behind me on Cav and so I made the decision that I'd stay behind with him and leave the girls to it. We stayed at the bottom of the mountain waiting to see if the horses came back down and having a chat. It was nice to have 10 minutes to chill out after such a fast ride previously.

Once the girls had found a route for Clare to head to the hayfield we all began to make our way down. It was still pretty steep and I hope that Clare is proud of her willingness and determination to cover some of the ground we did. I know if I had a fear like hers I wouldn't have attempted half the mountains she did. Soon enough we were back in the hay field and ready to start again. We hoped this time it would go better than before, but unfortunately the horses weren't making life easy and found another gap in the fence, this time making their way to the old ranch. Intervention from Jess and Hannah was required again and before long we were on the right track, until they left us to it again and only three of us were left wrangling. Somehow the rest had gotten left behind and decided just to walk which made for a rather frustrating few minutes as Kerry, Hugh and I realised we were doing this alone and tried to work out the best possible plan. In the end we kept on pushing and the horses ended in a neighbours field which Jess then caught up with us and said we were leaving them there. Phew! A huge part of me was disappointed that we hadn't been able to accomplish something like this alone, but it takes a lot of practice to learn to wrangle successfully and I hope if I return to the ranch in the future it is something I'll be given the opportunity to have a go at again!

Eventually we made it back to the ranch, all rather tired and sad that our time as a group was over. The two were leaving at 4am the next morning and Kathrin, Hugh, Kerry and I were heading off to Montana to go to a Rodeo before I left for New York on Sunday. MaeCile asked if I would consider allowing everyone to look at my pictures on the book screen as a slideshow which I was pleased about. Jess put some cowboy music on and it was nice to sit wedged between Kathrin and Hugh again and watch our adventure as a group unfold once more right from the beginning.

*

Part 5 is the final instalment of my Wyoming adventure, but also one of the most exciting as I get to cross yet another thing of my bucket list. I'll be posting it in the next couple of days!

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