A return to normalcy? Nope.

I returned from the beach Sunday night and said goodbye to my Colorado friend on Monday evening.

I went to the barn and had a mediocre ride on my boy. He didn't want to canter for me, but gave me an energetic trot and I was pleased with that.

I also scheduled his very first trail ride to take place on this upcoming Sunday! D and Becky are able to go with us as well! They both have rock solid trail horses and I think that will be a confidence builder for Granite. We plan to go to Pilot Mountain State Park and ride some rather flat and boring trails (good for him!). I am so stoked. I'm trying to redirect my thinking with Granite and really just try to be low stress and fun during our rides. I am also trying to keep them short.

I went out yesterday on my evening off and tacked up the kid. We started off pretty well, doing lots of turns and trotting poles, trying to break it up and make it fun. He was doing really well (cue ominous music) then he started coughing. Its dry and dusty, so I let him stop then I started again, and in a bit... he coughed some more. Then we cantered (YES, he picked up the canter for me!) and he wheezed. And then started hacking. I brought him back down to the walk. We regained composure and we went in the opposite direction. He picked up the canter again (amazing!!!) and then the wheezing and coughing. I immediately pulled him back down and walked him out. He didn't cough any more once I walked him out and took him in. I hosed him off and did our usual after ride routine. No coughing. So apparently it is directly related to elevated breathing. I am concerned. Eva's horse has a cough a couple weeks ago that the vet dubbed allergies. It has since cleared. I think we are going to hold out a couple of days to see if it gets better or worse. I'm so worried for his healthy (obviously), my wallet, and the prospect of our first trail ride being ruined! Its always something isn't it??

Today was my TK's first day as a High School Teacher! He was so cute. He was also so nervous. I know how passionate he is about his job and I am so proud of him. I wish I could find that passion in my 9-5....

Which leads me to the big news of the day. I got a call back for a second round interview for the job I interviewed for last week. I am one of TWO finalists. I will be interviewed by the SEVEN elected officials of the Town and they will have made a decision by the first week in September. If I am offered a position, I will begin on October 1st. This could be life changing. It will include a huge salary increase, no more second job, a move 1.5 hours east and in with my best friend, a new home/trainer situation for Granite and a big career break for me. Please please please send some positive thoughts my way next Tuesday night as I tackle this interview.

Its OFFICIALLY going to be another abnormal week filled with waiting tables, work meetings at night, more waiting tables, a trip to a Carolina Panther's game, possibly a trail ride, possibly a vet visit and LOTS of studying and preparation for this final round interview for a job that could really change my whole life-- for the better.

Granite and Reno say PLEASE get this job so we can stay together!!!