Last Friday and Saturday I got two great, long rides on Annie, my sweet mare. Even though it was HOT, riding in the country, watching the butterflies, smelling Annie's horsey smell, was the best therapy EVER!
And did I need therapy! This summer went by in a blur. My son was a college bound freshman. No matter that I wasn't ready. He was ready and I just had to suck it up. Spending the little time I had with him between his parties and time spent with his circle of friends kept me away from the barn as did work (rewarding and busy), driving my younger daughter around (who has a social life of her own) and the weather (very wet or very hot).
I kept telling myself I would have plenty of time to ride after Labor Day. Meanwhile, Annie was cared for, getting lots of turn-out, farrier and vet visits.
Taking my son to college and leaving him there was as hard as I imagined it would be. When we returned home and found his room without him, it hurt like hell. Of course his starting college was a good thing. I was so proud he got into his top choice and happy that he was safely launched into his new adventure. But did it have to hurt so much?
I needed to remember I had a life too. My own adventure was waiting for me. Where was the best place to get back on my path?
The barn!
Annie and Maple Row Farm did not let me down. Annie greeted me like an old friend with nickers and head nods. All I wanted to do was get on her and walk around. Nothing more challenging then that. To sit in Annie's saddle was like sitting in the oldest, most comfy chair in the house. And she seemed to be in sync with my mood. How nice it was just to breathe in the country air from the back of a happy horse. Ah!
My human friends, too, were equally welcoming. They understood why I hadn't been out much during the summer and without saying so, encouraged me to take advantage of the healing power of horses. After my ride I caught up on the barn gossip: who was new, who was sold, who was searching for their next horse, who made an ass of himself at the county fair show (no one from Maple Row, of course!). As much as things change at the barn, they stay the same, which is a great comfort.
Already I feel better spiritually and physically. I can explore what's next for me now, with strength and excitement.
Dr Aletta,
I am so glad you were able to get some time with Annie and write about it.
Posted by: SD | September 04, 2011 at 04:34 PM
Me, too, SD!
Posted by: Dr Aletta | September 05, 2011 at 10:56 AM
Excelent Post!, there are not information like this over the internet, Congrats!!
Posted by: Bajar de Peso | September 26, 2011 at 02:36 AM