Back in the Saddle Again

Today was Betty's first day back in the saddle with Gletta since her accident last Fall. We took several precautions - helmet and riding safety vest - to give Betty all help she needed. As it turned out she got on Gletta and rode her around our back paddock just as if nothing had ever happened. She spent time working on flexing Gletta's neck and head to soften her and reconnect with her from the saddle. She rode for about 20 minutes with no problems at all.

Here are some pictures.

Betty has just started her ride and is flexing Gletta's neck to begin softening her body.

After riding to the back of the paddock Betty stopped to flex Gletta again.

Betty is walking Gletta on a relaxed rein and both seem to be enjoying the ride. Both of their postures are easy and relaxed.

Walking along the back - again with an easy, relaxed posture.

Toward the end of the ride, coming along the fence and the round pen, both seem to be doing fine.

I could tell by the expression on Betty's face that she was doing just fine with this first ride.

Many people have real problems with a serious fall from their horse and find it difficult to get back into the saddle again - especially after such a long time. However, Betty from the beginning said she was going to ride again. She wouldn't say this, but I will - she has so much courage and love for Gletta that she was not going to let anything keep her from riding her again.

She's my hero!