Second Time in the Saddle …
I’m on the left with Hoss, and my writing and riding friend, T.K. Sheffield, is on the right with Willow.
My dear writing and riding friend, T.K. Sheffield (whose debut cozy mystery, Model Suspect, is due out November 14) and I spent a morning trail riding at Bob Paluso Guest Ranch last week. I was happy to be back in the saddle again after only a week’s time, and it was T.K. Sheffield’s first time on horseback in several years.
The weather was perfect: a cool 60 degrees, sunny, with a slight breeze. A nice change from the 90s of the previous week. Our guide, Chloe, was so much fun. It was wonderful to ride with someone who is a true horsewoman, especially at such a young age. You are in good hands if you go trail riding with her.
T.K.Sheffield on the left, Chloe our guide in the middle, and me on the right.
We weren’t too sore afterwards. I was earlier in the week, after my first ride. Abductor muscles (inner thigh) are seldom used for other sports. Mine complained for a few days, but I did yoga and helped stretch them out. I’ve since started a workout routine that incorporates walking, yoga, and strength training, plus some Pilates just added. I cannot ride without proper flexibility and strength. The best cure for sore muscles is, of course, more time in the saddle. It’s truly the only way to gain the fitness needed to be on a horse regularly.
Chloe on Bebe on the left, me on Hoss, and Willow’s ears.
I have to admit that I’ve been a lot happier since starting back riding again. Horses are a part of my soul, something I was born with. I get mad at myself for putting this off for so long when It’s obviously a deep passion of mine. I suppose I told myself more than once, “Some day I’ll ride again …” except when would that have been if I hadn’t jumped at the chance recently? If the Queen rode daily until she was in her 90s, I could get back on in my 60s. I’m blessed to be healthy and able to do this. I want to keep riding now that the “Horse Bug” has bitten me again.
Hoss and me after our ride.
As I write this, I’m looking for a barn near me to ride at regularly and maybe even lease a horse. I have a meeting on Sunday with a woman who runs the riding program at a nearby hunter/jumper stable. She has a wait list, so I’m not sure how far this will go (hopefully, though …). I visited a lesson barn last Friday and literally left in tears. No need for details, but it was definitely a NO for me. I had high hopes for riding there weekly with a small group of adult riders but had to walk away. There is also a stable close by who leases horses for riding, along with weekly lessons (this is part of the agreement) that sounds promising. I’m waiting for a response from the owner when she has time for me to visit and go over more details. So, hang on. I’ll have more details next post. Wish me luck!
Happy riding!
Author Kerri Lukasavitz and the middle grade Oak Lane Stable Novel Series: Books written for young readers, but enjoyed by horse lovers of all ages.
