Good Omens All Around

This is an egg case, an ootheca, from a praying mantis, left as a gift to us in our front door frame. This last month or so, the female who left it has been a constant companion at our door. 

And in the flowers next to it. 

Sadly, the female mantis will die after she lays her eggs. 

Her oothaca can contain 50-200 baby mantises, and I now have the responsibility to keep them safe through winter. 

I’ve always known the praying mantis is a good sign, but the oothaca has even more symbology: divine timing, birth and rebirth, spiritual renewal, peace, and perseverance. 

I will take whatever good tidings I can get. 

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When I was at the equestrian park two days ago I met a young trainer who studied under my trainer now and is willing to put rides on horses. I watched her with the young horse she was riding and was impressed with her gentle, yet confident approach. 

We set up a time for her to ride Tweed on the trails next week, as I’m interested to get her input. I told her what he’s doing on hills and she didn’t seem fazed by it. 

If it works out, I will try to get maybe a couple more rides from her before winter hits, and then some spring rides later. Fingers crossed it works out, as she might me just the person to help us through this little blip. 

She asked me all about my goals and training—what we want accomplished and how—and is willing to support that work. My current trainer thought it was an excellent idea to help us along. 

The great thing about this is that I can have my grandson with me, since I won’t be in saddle. That frees up a lot more opportunities and the chance to get more rides on Tweed, which he needs. 

Good omens all around.