Wild Horses

We pushed our kayaks out into the cool waters of the Salt River. Passing towering bluffs and saguaro cacti. It was a surreal and wonderful way to experience the landscapes of Mesa.

As amazing as the bluffs and cacti were, there was really only one reason we woke up before dawn, drove 2.5hrs and were now floating down the river at 8am. Wild horses.

When we were out west a couple years ago, I admired the photography of artists capturing these beautiful creatures. I heard tales of them, roaming free in the desert landscape. And I wanted to experience them for myself.

We had very specific directions from our guide. When there is a fork in the river, ONLY turn right. We navigated the first turn and saw the second fork approaching. That is when we spotted a wild horse, to our left. I had to get closer.

There he was. Along the bank, eating and drinking. With no owner, no saddle, no bit or bridle. Swishing his tail and paying no attention to his admirers. He was beautiful.

That is when we saw why our guide told us to go right. We were headed toward a narrow, rough patch of water. We turned around and paddled hard against the current. It seemed like we weren't moving forward. I swung my kayak toward the bank and broke free, just before my strength wore out. We headed back on course, eager to discover what was ahead.

An hour went by, without seeing another horse. I was starting to think he was the only one we were going to see on this trip. I was reconciling myself with this idea when we approached a towering bridge bearing a sign. We were now entering the Tonto National Forest. It was grand and felt like we were entering the Elven lands of Rivendell.

As we paddled around the first bend, I heard it. No, not horses, water. Loud, rushing water. The guide didn't warn us about rapids. We paddled hard, navigating around the rocks and dips as water cascaded into our kayaks. My heart pounded. I was glad that I made it through without hitting a rock and flipping.

I was still recovering when I heard new sounds ahead. Splashing, neighing. Rounding the bend, I saw a whole herd of wild horses was moving through the river and up the opposite bank. When we got close enough, the last one was just disappearing into the desert.

There was a loud thundering as they all galloped past. Their hoofs hit the dry ground, reverberating through the river. I could feel their wild freedom the way you can feel the bass in your bones when the music is loud.

We passed 3 more groups of horses after this. Some peacefully drinking, some showing off their strength as they crossed the river. It was breathtaking.

I am still unearthing what it might be, but I think something broke free in me that day too.

(Dave and I just celebrated our 20th anniversary! This was a part of a special trip we took out to Arizona for a week of hiking and being together. I am so thankful for this trip and especially for my wonderful mom, who held down the fort while we were gone. I am letting all this good inspiration marinate. You may see some work ahead inspired by this trip!)

To beautiful things ahead,

Make sure to get your copies of the new calendar before Monday to receive the Pre-sale discount! Featuring 12 new paintings that celebrate the seasons and the beauty to be found in each one.