Melinda has a horse! The Washoe Valley, just south of Reno is desert/ranch/horse country. Her sister lives there and has a horse. When Melinda heard about the Parelli method of horse training, she decided this was a perfect fit for her passion about learning in general. It also provides an activity away from work and away from the house. She loves her horse. Meet Dudley:



Instead of yanking on a horse with a bit in his mouth, or kicking him with spurs, the Parelli method shows you how to 'bond' with the horse and get him to do things with simple gestures. She clapped a short clap, raised her hand pointing to the right and Dudley started to trot in the direction she pointed.



Our cowgirl, Melinda:



She told me that one thing she learned is if she gets lower than Dudley he trusts her more.



A girl and her horse.



After visiting Dudley, we went out to dinner at the Peppermill casino. They have a great seafood restaurant. Talk about a contrast! From desert and dust to glamour and glitz. I actually liked the decor - neon everywhere. They made it feel like you were underwater with all the fish (one of my favorite places) and the sun was shining on the waves above you. The food was good too. But the best, of course, was conversation with a dear old friend. We've known each other for 25 years. We've lived together, traveled together, shared heartbreaks and joys and, lots of meals!