A Velvety Snuffle

I cradled a fresh, tender cluster of sweet clover that I plucked from beside the meadow path. Walking up to the weathered split-rail fence of the riding paddock, I saw a tall chestnut horse grazing in the sunshine. Tiptoeing carefully onto the sturdy bottom wooden rail, I rested both plush hands flat on the top bar, offering the clover leaves in my open palms. The horse lifted its head, took slow, quiet steps toward me, and lowered its wide muzzle. Its velvety nose gave a soft, warm snuffle against my plush fingertips, tickling gently before nibbling the sweet greens away. Standing so still beside such a giant friend made my heart swell.