Mules are charming (?), aren't they?! I have rode a few, but mostly packed them and led them into cow camps in the mountains. One of the ranchers jacks was named "Jake the Snake". He would not be led. He was let to find his own trail in his own time. One might catch a glimpse of him on the trail, but he generally kept out of sight until camp. He was always there waiting. He never failed to show up, he never lost his load. If only his human metaphors were as honest and reliable as Jake. Jake would've voted for Bush.
I spent 9 days in the Arizona mountains on a mule.
I wish I had a picture of the pack string.... He let them all follow loose also, their mother was his lead horse and they weren't going far.
that is definitely a jumping mule.