Your alarm clock just went off, not to mention its way to early for it to be going off on a weekend. You roll over, turn it off, then say to yourself "Why, why do I do this to myself?" You contemplate blowing off your plans for the day, you decide sleep is much more valuable. Then you remember why you set your alarm clock in the first place. You set it because you have something very important to do today, something you have been busting your butt for. But yet, you still question "Why, why do I do this to myself?" At this point the thought of falling back asleep is no longer tempting. You have woken up too early too many times for your body to let you fall back asleep. So, you give in. You roll out of bed, and proceed in zombie mode. You make your way though the house, turn on the coffee pot as you pass by, and you then walk out the door.
Now, you are hearing and smelling something that is far to familiar to you. The sound of impatient foot falls, eager nickers, the scent of your favorite animal mixed with the scent of hay. The reason your alarm clock started making that annoying sound, and disturbed your peaceful dream, is now all so clear. Your love for the animal, the sport, the trill, the joy, the frustration, the self confidence, and perseverance; it's your life, and it is in your blood, something you can not change, nor would you ever dream to change. It's part of being an equestrian.
Welcome to my world, 5 AM Saturday morning, January 21, 2012.
I must say: I am a pretty lucky person. The reason I say this is because I am surround by the most supportive and special people anyone could ever ask for.
First of all because my mother is just as dedicated to my sport as I am. She woke up with me at 5 AM so that she could drive me a hour and a had away to see my horse and have my lesson. Although do not be fooled, when she brings me to the barn she doesn't try to fine a warm place to wait until I am finished. No, my mother is the ultimate horse mom. She is out there in the freezing cold video taping my ride! So, for that, I would like to say a special Thank You to my mom because she is the best mom ever.
Next, I am want to say that Cassi Martin is an amazing person. Not only was she willing to give me a riding lesson at 7:30 in the morning, in the middle of winter, in 10 degree weather. She also had my horse all tacked up and walking around the ring when I got there!!!!!! I felt so spoiled, but I really do appreciate everything Cassi has been doing for me! Plus, I also know Link is really enjoying her too!
Finally, I what to say Thank You to Tina for catering to all of my horse's needs. I know he can be a Pre-Madona sometimes, so again, Thank You Tina.
If I were to spend another early morning in the barn riding while it is only 10 degrees, I wouldn't do it with a different group of people. No matter what the conditions where we still managed to have a successful ride and a good time.
