Riding has always been a daily part of my life. Recent surgeries and rehabilitation have taken me out of the hunt for quite some time. I am now ready to climb back on. I mounted just yesterday and became unexpectedly overwhelmed and quickly exhausted. How can something that came so naturally to me feel this way? Not to mention how out of shape I felt.

But one thing remained a constant, my mare. She seemed to know and took wonderful care of me and actually waited for me to adjust myself not once but many times. In those moments, she taught me that it’s just going to take time. Time to get stronger. Time to gain confidence. Time to gallop up those hills. And that is exactly what I am going to give myself. Time and a plan!

I started a lesson schedule to build up my strength and confidence. I started a log to keep track of my progress.  I have joined yoga and Pilates to help me get stronger.  I am also eating healthier.  Basically, I have started a foundation of groundwork combined with my riding time.  I have also made a decision to not be so hard on myself.  I am going to give myself one ride at a time until I am fully back in the hunt.  I am fortunate to have a great support system of horses, trainers, friends, and family.  My journey has just begun.

I know I am in for some struggling and rocky days, but I am not going to give up. I have a mare that doesn’t even know the meaning of giving up and I owe her my partnership. Nothing makes us happier than running up those hills and we are going to do it together.