Samson's rough day

Long time no post-I have fallen down on the job!!. Yesterday was a big day for the little boy. I have known for some time that he was too dependent upon his buddy Fred so I decided to take him on a trail ride across to Dad's on his own. Dad was waiting with his gator to set the pace and help out if needed. Boy was it needed. I mounted only after walking him over there- we walked ok for a very little way and then "boom" he started whipping around on his hind and then rearing and neighing frantically for Fred- who was neighing in return in the distance. I turned him in circles, backed him up, alittle spanking with the reins to no avail. Now this was a battle I couldn't afford to lose, nor did I want to get in a big fight with him because no telling who would win. So- I got off and into the back of the gator and held on to him and off we went. We walked along for some time this way and then I got back on him. Same thing-only worse. Off again-back to being brought along by the gator only this time at a trot. We went further this time- got back on him- same thing only this time alot of emphatic pawing was added. Back to the gator- we drove the gator at a pace that kept him at an extended trot which is all we could saftly do. We went further- got back on. Same thing only this time his effort was not as energetic-we were almost there. One more short round with the gator and I got back on. This time he stood still and when I asked him to follow gator he did so willingly!!!!!!! Man was I relieved!!!!!!! We continued following the gator as our pacer for a short while and then called it quits while we were still on a good note. Samson walked home quietly without neighing or pulling on the bit. He worked up quite a sweat - a real good workout for Samson, me and my Dad. We will repeat this outing today. Hopefully he chooses to ride right along behind the gator- we were all pretty tired yesterday and really don't want a repeat. Will post results.