Finding a love

It is interesting as a parent to watch our kids try new sports and different activities. Some we like OK, some we have found are just not for us. We have also learned so much about our kids too. E1- not competitive at all, E2 - just wants everyone to be happy (and not too loud), E3 can make a competition out of eating dinner. E1 has been to camp the past 4 summers. She is gone for 2 weeks. This camp has let her try new things without mom there to scare her out of them because of the "danger" involved. Each summer she has said horseback ridding was her favorite activity. Boy, I'm glad I was not there to talk her out of it. I tried to ignore this as much as possible. She was persistent though. Finally last year, after much research mind you, I knew I could not hold her back any longer. I found a GREAT/SUPER trainer that not only loves what she does but loves my kids too. Riding is so good for their self-esteem, great exercise and a huge confidence builder. E2 and E3 decided they wanted to ride too. Oh boy! So much to think about, so much to worry about! Elizabeth took us under her wing and not only taught our guys how to ride safely but taught me how to breath while watching! In no time she had E1 where she could walk, trot, canter with ease. Next came the hard part. Well the hard part for me! Jumping. Oh My!! As if watching your child on top of this huge animal was not hard enough, now you want my child to jump over those rails?!? Was she crazy? No, she wasn't. She knew my child's ability better than I did. E1 could not wait to jump and in no time she was. I can not begin to tell you how it feels to see your love, a piece of your heart, go jumping through the air on the back of an animal that I will be honest about, scared me to death! So you see, not only have E1, E2 and E3 learned so much, I have too. I love these animals now! My heart no longer sputters out of control while around them. I can't wait to go to the stables with my guys. Those horses have boosted this family's confidence! Elizabeth I owe you many thanks for all you have done for us through your love of horses and kids! It's one year later and E1 and E2 still ride. E1 would go every day if I could send her. E3 is ready for baseball to start again this spring and for football next summer/fall.

Here are some pictures of a lesson just a couple of weeks ago.

This is E2 in the 2-point position. Great for the legs!

This is E1 warming up on Cricket, aka Pony. He is a pony. You might think having her on a small horse would make me feel better. No, you see, Pony has an attitude (much like her's!). He has dumped her at a jump on more than one occasion! She and Elizabeth have worked really hard and now he is much better. Take a look.

Isn't it amazing to think this 13 year old girl that weighs 100 lbs (with cloths on and wet hair!) could make this huge animal do that?!? This is what makes E1 happy. This is her "thing"! This is her. I love you baby girl! Go after your dreams, no matter how big they seem!

We love our trainer! She is stern, full of knowledge and EXTREMELY funny! See?

See why we love her so much? No wonder we can't wait to get to the stables!