Today I made my commitment to RAC 2010 start off with a bang (thankfully only figuratively) rather than a whimper. I have not ridden since I came off a horse in August 2008 and badly dislocated a finger. I have allowed many things to get in my way – starting a new full-time job, marriage of one daughter, birth of a grand-daughter, and then breaking one & spraining the other ankle. When I am so long off a horse my fear increases, as I’m sure is the same for everyone. There is only one cure for it, and that is to break everything down into short bits, be with someone you trust, and take it little by little. Physically, Chuck went with me, as I need his quietness, his support right now. I selected *Walker, who is his lady because I knew that if she didn’t listen to me, she would listen to him, and seek him out if my fears got the better of her. But emotionally and spiritually, I knew I had a whole passel of other Curly riders out there at the same time!
Once down in our field of snow, I mounted and discovered that the sprained ankle hurt far more than I had anticipated. We spent about 10 minutes with me in the saddle doing a bit of “Chuck back up, and call to *Walker (or I ask her) to go to him”. That was all my confidence could manage, but it was 10 minutes more than yesterday. Of course, I will need to keep going to do better, but it is a start.
Once down in our field of snow, I mounted and discovered that the sprained ankle hurt far more than I had anticipated. We spent about 10 minutes with me in the saddle doing a bit of “Chuck back up, and call to *Walker (or I ask her) to go to him”. That was all my confidence could manage, but it was 10 minutes more than yesterday. Of course, I will need to keep going to do better, but it is a start.
GOOD FOR YOU!!! Awesome! You have a great attitude and are paying attention to details to ensure you have a successful ride. Way to go! ;)
ReplyDeleteEXCELLENT Adria! You've made the first step, congo-rats!
ReplyDeleteLOVE your pic, Adria....just keep 'er goin girlfriend....we want to see more of you this year. =]
ReplyDeleteFrom someone who owns a caseload of lingering injuries - I always ride with tight fitting half chaps for support and since I got my EZ stirrups-- those have helped a lot with no more pain in knee or ankle (big difference in long rides for me) . Those are my Jack Benny tips of the day -- but good for you for getting the saddle ! Hope you keep it up and enjoy ~
ReplyDeleteWow Adria, I had no idea you broke your ankle. :(
ReplyDeleteAnd that's a lot of stuff going on. So proud of you for getting back in the saddle!! Way to start the year off right. :) And I think just getting yourself back in the saddle, for whatever length of time, is an accomplishment worth celebrating. We're here to cheer you on.
Brie
Wow, I am impressed that you got back on. :)
ReplyDeleteAdria,
ReplyDeleteI am late getting into the comment mode but am trying to catch up on the blog etc... I wnat to give you high kudos for the effort - you are absolutely correct - it IS 10 minutes more than the day before. I joined this "competition" to get back on my horse but have let the weather interfere so seeing/hearing about you being so brave and dedicated makes me think! Tomorrow my boy is coming in from the section and I shall try for my 10 minutes!!! keep up the good work, watch the details and you will be safe!!!
ellen