Ep 18. Back in the Saddle Again

In season 2, episode 18 of Gilmore Girls titled "Back in the Saddle Again," Rory Gilmore is feeling the pressure of schoolwork and extracurricular activities. Her grandfather, Richard, convinces her to take a break and attend a horse show with him, where he is judging. Despite her initial reluctance, she decides to go and ends up reconnecting with an old friend from her childhood who is also competing in the show.

Meanwhile, Lorelai Gilmore is struggling to find a new assistant manager for the Independence Inn after her previous one left abruptly. After several lackluster interviews, she hires Sookie's cousin, Rune, who turns out to be a disaster. He constantly messes up and annoys the other staff members, causing Lorelai to regret her decision.

Back at the horse show, Rory watches her friend, Olivia, compete while also running into trouble with a pushy horse trainer who insists she ride a horse named Charming instead of the one she practiced with. Olivia ends up falling off of Charming during her routine, and Rory takes her place in the final round. Despite her nerves, she manages to perform well and catches the attention of a college recruiter who offers her a scholarship to attend their school.

As Lorelai deals with Rune's incompetence, Rory returns home with the news of her scholarship offer. Lorelai is thrilled for her daughter and they celebrate over takeout at home, despite the chaos caused by Rune's antics.

The episode ends on a positive note for both Lorelai and Rory, with Lorelai finally firing Rune and Rory feeling more confident about her future. It's a classic Gilmore Girls episode that showcases the strong mother-daughter bond between Lorelai and Rory, and the struggles they face as they navigate their busy lives.