Horses and Pancakes

The frost arrived a few weeks early at the Leim family farm, which meant that when we arrived last Saturday, the maple trees were already in full fall glory. They set the tone, literally, for a vibrant day. The first person down the long driveway was actually new to Side by Side, invited by a family member. He asked what this was all about and was told we gather together as people of all abilities to experience life together. He nodded, a mix of curiosity and uncertainty.

Zack and the horse, Kat.

The Leims graciously host SBS every month for a farm day, and SBSers need little encouragement to experience all the place has to offer. The Little Spokane River snakes along the east side, accompanied by the odd giant basalt boulder; goats and chickens and a couple horses populate the meadows. On a typical farm day, we gather for circle time, rotate through farm stations, play some games, and of course, eat. Today: Pancake Palooza. We were frankly a little nervous about quantity when we saw how many people came, but the pancakes just kept coming, fresh off the griddle, adding to an already special atmosphere.

Rachel, giving off some good farm vibes.

After lunch, people could hitch a 4-wheeler ride to the river, or ride the horses, or simply relax in the sunshine. The horses are always popular; it’s remarkable to see how empowering and how therapeutic it is for our friends to ride horseback.

The time ended and people reluctantly began to drive away. The newest person, the one who’d arrived first, said goodbye and shared: “This has been an amazing, eye-opening experience. You go through life focused on your little world and meanwhile God’s doing something you had no idea about. I never would have pictured something like this.”