Sinead and Strawberry by Elaine Heney

Author:Elaine Heney
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Elaine Heney
Published: 2023-06-27T00:00:00+00:00

"Good morning, Strawberry," she said, reaching out to stroke her mane.

Strawberry in response, nuzzled into her shoulder, letting out a soft, friendly whinny. This small sign of affection lifted Sinead's heart.

"It's a new day, girl," she whispered into the pony's ear. "We're going to make it a good one, aren’t we?"

For the past few days, Sinead had stopped riding Strawberry to let the pony rest and heal. She had stopped feeding her oats as per Mr. Ryan's instructions, and a new diet plan had been set up, with more calming food.

Strawberry seemed more relaxed already, which Sinead thought was a good sign.

"Good morning to you too, Strawberry," Sinead murmured, her voice barely audible. She reached out and gently rubbed Strawberry's forehead. The pony nuzzled against Sinead's shoulder again whickering.

Sinead giggled, she was hopeful that things were starting to look up.

Later that day, as the school bell rang out, marking the end of lunchtime, Sinead, Aoife, and Fiona led their ponies into the sandy riding arena. Today was different for Sinead; Strawberry was wearing her new saddle and bitless bridle, the sun glinting off the well-polished leather.

A knot of anxiety twisted in Sinead's stomach, as she glanced at her friends. It was time to find out if what they had done had worked. Would Strawberry be any better?

"I'm feeling nervous about this new saddle and bridle," she confessed to Aoife and Fiona. "What if Strawberry doesn't like it? Or what if I can’t stop her without a bit?"

Aoife, always supportive, gave Sinead an encouraging smile. "Don't worry, Sinead. You've got this. Mr. Gallagher wouldn’t have suggested it if he didn’t think you could do it," she said, reaching out to pat Sinead's arm.

"And remember, Strawberry trusts you," Fiona added. "You'll figure it out together.

Try and think positive, not that she might not like it, or I might not be able to stop, more like, she might like it and be comfortable and better behaved."

Their words eased the worry in Sinead's stomach, but it didn't completely disappear. As they approached the mounting blocks, Mr. Gallagher, with his glasses perched on his forehead, was already waiting for them.

"All right, everyone," he announced, "mount up using the blocks as usual. Sinead, you and I will spend a few minutes working with Strawberry and the new tack. And one more important thing..."

His eyes twinkled with mirth. "Does any know how do ponies greet each other?" he asked.

Before anyone could answer, he added, "They say, 'Hay' there!"

Despite her nerves, Sinead couldn't help but chuckle at Mr. Gallagher's cheesy joke. Aoife and Fiona joined in the laughter, lightening the atmosphere in the arena. Soon most of the students were walking around the arena.

"Good, everyone," Mr. Gallagher called out, watching them. "Now, remember to look where you're going. Don’t stare at your ponies head. You should be able to turn right and left just by looking where you want to go! That’s how smart your ponies are! Try not to use your reins too much."

Turning his attention to Sinead, he gently said, "Sinead, you can do this.

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