Re: downhill at speed

[Sue Brown <sbrown@wamedes.com>]

>we used to do a lot of backpacking. One of our favorite things to do was
to find a scree field on a steep (the steeper the better) pitch. We'd then
run down it, more like ski down it. You couldn't walk it well but you could
sure boggie down it. I am sure in forgiving loam the horses find the same
optimal speeds.

In my backpacking days, during our mountain hikes in Montana, we'd come
down the slopes (bypassing the hairpin logging roads we took up) and
"bushwhack" down the fall line.  It was always done at the top speed you
had courage and physical fitness to handle...but never done at a walk.  I
think it would have been harder.  You used gravity to give you the momentum
to jump over the little crevices or logs...and we somehow made it without
hurting ourselves!  The most important part of the whole scenario was
keeping your body upright and balanced.  (Oooh boy, this brings back some
good memories...and then after the hike, we'd go hot-potting with our
flasks of wine. ;-)  No wonder I enjoy scooting up and down the hills on a
horse...and, in the absence of a decent hot-potting location, I should have
a hot tub now I think.)

Hey Steve...about that commission check that you're getting in March...I've
got a GREAT idea!! <g>

Sue

sbrown@wamedes.com
Tyee Farm
Marysville, Wa.


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