Luscious Bangs

Spring turned into summer, and summer turned into fall. Birds chirped and the crisp air blew through the trees. It was still early in the morning, around 5:30 am, despite the sun not rising yet Evelyn was ready to start her day. Her mom was downstairs brewing coffee, a much-needed energy boost to let her match Evelyn’s energy. This seems to be a growing pattern, early mornings with hot coffee and an energetic child.

Skipping down the stairs, Evelyn was dressed in thick pants and a nice windbreaker jacket. She clutched her journal close to her chest, eager to see all the ponies and draw. Throughout the years, Evelyn has had iffy luck with these rascals. Even more determined than ever, the young girl grabbed the pamphlet off of the dining room table. Quickly skimming through the pages for the hundredth time, just in case she missed a pony the ninety-nine times before.

“Hey Hun, are you having second thoughts about your picks?” Evelyn’s mom gave a tired smile.

“I don’t think so, but I can’t make a decision until I see them in person,” nodding her head in agreement with herself, "when do you think you’ll be ready? I want to get there before the crowd.”

Antsily sitting in the car as they drive down the pavement driveway. Perched on the edge of her seat, always taking in the beautiful view they have on the drive. By the time they arrive the sun has started to rise and cast a soft yellow over the property. With the park put in park and turned off, the pair made their way towards the stable. A small group has already formed, chatting away and looking over the ponies.

Grabbing onto her mothers' hand, she led her towards the end of the barn aisle. Once again with her pamphlet opened, she read each description as they walked past each pony. There were a few that caught her eye, but one grey mare stood out the most. Her contrasting colors were stunning, and Evelyn couldn’t pass her up. For some reason, Evelyn was seems to be attracted towards the ponies on the smaller end- definitely not on purpose.

“I think I’m going to try for this mare, Monastrell.” Evelyn handed her mom the pamphlet as they stood by her stall. The mares forelock was long enough to cover both of her eyes no matter where she looked. The grey mare let out a soft nicker at the pair, bobbing her head up and down as she took a few steps closer to the stall door. Reaching her hand out, Evelyn gently rubbed the mares nose, feel her soft muzzle and whiskers. A large smile grew on her face, continuing to pet the mare.

It was about time for the foul to be shuffled outside by the pasture the ponies will be released into. Gathering her belongings, Evelyn and her mom made their way down to the wooden fence line. With the sun at a higher height, the atmosphere grew warmer. Taking off her windbreaker, she grabbed the blue ribbon from her jacket pocket. With a deep sigh, she was ready. Overhearing some of the other people, she noticed quite a few others talking about the same grey mare she was with earlier. Getting a bit more nervous than before, Evelyn turned to her mom.

“I heard a few others talking about her, I’m nervous,” Evelyn spoke softly while holding her moms hand.

“Oh hunny, with your braiding skills that ribbon isn’t coming loose anytime soon. But if it does, then you just got to remember that there’s other ponies out there that are looking for a loving home, and a sweet girl to take care of them.” Rubbing the top of her hand affectionately, it helped calm Evelyn.

“Ladies and gentleman, we’re almost ready to release the beasts! Please make sure your belongings stay outside of the pasture, and you keep track of your own ribbon as they’re personalized to you. Once the ponies are released, the gate will be opened and you’re allowed to enter. You have a little over an hour to pick, and braid your bell ribbon into their mane or tail. Good luck, and have fun!” The voice over the speaker echoed through the trees.

The gates opened, and Evelyn went in. Instead of rushing to the grey mare immediately, she strolled through the herd and took another look at them. There were a few other ponies that caught her eye, but she already imagined a future with the little grey mare. Finally noticing the mare wasn’t surrounded by people she walked over. Quietly clicking at her in order to not spook her, Evelyn reached into her pants pocket to grab a small handful of treats. Holding her hand out, she offered them to the pony.

Food was the perfect bride, as the mare went back to grazing and allowed Evelyn to pet her neck and shoulder. Surprisingly, there weren’t any ribbons in her mane yet. Grabbing a good chunk of mane towards her withers, Evelyn began to braid it in. Tying the ends together to complete the braid, she took a step back and smiled, content with her work. Patting the mare one last time, she exited the pasture. Hoping to receive a call in a few weeks saying that she was hers.