Even though I said I wasn't going to ride until I got the new saddle, I felt so good this morning that I rode Bouffe anyway. It was a struggle getting the Billy Cook on Bouffe's back but after two tries I got it on.
The same thing happened when I was mounting. I didn't realize how much flexibility I had lost in my legs and after I tried several times to get my right leg over the cantle, I swung it over Bouffe's hindquarters and then over the cantle. I also had difficulty getting my feet in the stirrups, but Bouffe was patient with me when I eventually mounted and found my stirrups. I have never been around a horse like him. God definitely put Bouffe in my life so I could ride again, there is no other explanation. No other horse would put up with all my difficulties associated with my Multiple Sclerosis. Bouffe takes it all in stride.
Since this was the first day back in several weeks, I only rode Bouffe for fifteen minutes. We did several figure eights and serpentines while I practiced neck reining. I was surprised that Bouffe still remembered what I had taught him so far. I was glad I stopped when I did. I was sore but still had enough strength and balance to lead Bouffe to the barn, put his blanket back on, feed him his carrots and put him back in his stall. He is such a great horse!
My new saddle did arrive this afternoon and seems to be exactly what I ordered. We will see on Wednesday how it fits and if it is easier for me to tack up.
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