I miss… horse riding.
Whilst at primary school I learnt to ride on horses owned by friends. My mom has always loved horses and was quite an accomplished rider herself as a youngster. So, it seemed obvious that I too should learn, spending time with my friends at their paddock, having fun trotting around the fields.
I was small enough and light enough to be thrown up onto the saddle. I’m not delicate so I didn’t mind. A few bruises here and there was worth the enjoyment.
I was good too. Considering at that time I could only walk around my home or the classroom, and I had noticeable scoliosis. When on horseback I somehow sat up straighter than ever.
This all came to a stop rather abruptly, not because of my disability, but due to the fact that I suddenly developed an allergy to the horses! Yes, laugh it up. It really is so ridiculous it’s funny. Literally overnight I couldn’t go near them without streaming from the eyes and sneezing uncontrollably.
I’m thankful… that I was fortunate to have had that experience at all. Many with muscular dystrophy are unable to take part in such physically demanding activities.
Despite my rather comical allergy, I too am no longer able to ride horses due to the progression of my condition. As much as it would amuse onlookers, if I were to try now I’d simply fall off and land in a heap on the floor!
Oh well, here’s to the memories.
Great memories – and sometimes even more frustrating though knowing that you were so active and excelled too. You are obviously multi talented though and are now able to put your natural writing skills to great use 🙂