Another beginner

[MICH]

Hi, I am a 30 year old mother of two who needs to be reassured that I am not making a fool of myself, by wanting to ride again . My 5 year old girl has started riding lessons and so have I. Now on my third lesson and can't wait for the next (even if I can't control the horse).

I started riding at about 10 years old. I had a few lessons and also rode a
family friends horse occasionally. Since then I dreamt of nothing else but to have a horse of my own. For one reason and another the lessons stopped:(

Now I am in a position to have lessons again and maybe my dream will come true one day!! Am I jumping the gun?? How will I know if and when my girls and I are ready to take care of a horse?? Any advice welcome.

[msp]

Hi there,

Of course you are not making a fool of yourself! Or alternatively you are not alone :) !!!

I'm 33, and had never riden a horse before Oct last year, and now I've got the bug - Had a brilliant time hacking out today, and I'm out again tomorrow...

Why don't you pop over to the (*) "Mature Riders" forum at http://www.newrider.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=14 they are really nice people and very helpful.

(*) Mature as in adult, not as in mature, sensible and boring:)!

Have fun

PS> Where in Essex are you? I'm in Harlow, so if you are nearby I can recommend a few of the better instructors and places to ride.

[Wally]

Don't be daft!

If you are happy then go fot it!

There is no right time to buy a horse, you never stop learning about them. Get a small hairy native and have fun. If you get the right horse he will show you the way. Finding the right horse is the trick!

There are many breed societies out there who will be more than happy to guide you through the mine field that is ownership. Decide what sort you want, then get in touch with various breed societies for info.

I like small hairy horses, ones with the ability to look after themselves, and carry adults and kids. British natives are good, also Fjords and some Icelandics. Steer clear of Arabs for first time horses, and T'breds!

Have fun and never worry about making a fool of yourself! I do it every day!

[TNT]

Don't be silly of course your not being foolish! I'm 45 and just got my first horse. I get a few lessons from a neighbor girl but other than that I'm on my own. I also only rode friends horses and some times at a local stable. Now at 45 I'm starting over and it's wonderful! The mature riders site is great for people like us lots of good advice on both sites. Welcome and enjoy! enjoy!

[MICH]

Thanks for your replies.

It's nice to know there's people to encourage you out there. I will pop over to the Mature riders forum when I get a chance but I don't often get a look in with the computer. I have had a nose at it and I can't wait to get involved in some chat.

I don't know about you lot but I think"New Riders" is excellent, and once I do get on it before I know it 2hours have gone.

Better go, kids are calling!!

PS to MSP - I live near good old Romford not so near Im afraid. Havering-atter Bower is where I ride.

Speak soon.

:p

[Kerry's Partner!!]

Take heart. Your story sounds like my history. My wait for a horse of my own lasted until after my first grandchild was born!!
They DO teach you loads - the hairy natives, I mean. AND they are a joy too. In my experience the reality is you worry about them just as you did about your own children!!!! Nevertheless, like your own children it is really about the best thing you can do, so I agree: enjoy the experience - and welcome.

[Mossy]

Welcome aboard Michelle. Horses are a legal drug. Addictive and very expensive: and you suffer severe withdrawal if not around them for a few days! They also keep you fit, give far more than they ever take, and I would not be without them. Enjoy your riding , and if you are daft so are all of us mad fools of an age where we don't bounce as well as we might. It does not stop us riding though.